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COPYRIGHT DEPOSIT. 




GENERAL WILBUR R. SMITH 

Whilst Commissioner from Kentucky and a Juror of Award at the 
World's Columbian Exposition, Chicago, III., (1893) 







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Ancestry, 
Life and Reminiscences 



OF 



Gen. Wilbur R. Smith 



Lexington, Kentucky 



Many Years an Educator, Official 
and Honored Citizen 



The Inception 1 oe This Book Was by Resolution 

Fkom the 

Phi.lemporium Society 

■ — OF THE — ■ 

Commercial College of Kentucky University 



TRANSYLVANIA PRINTING CO. 

LEXINGTON, KY. 

1913 



Of) 



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Copyright Applied For. 
All Rights Reserved. 



APR 23 1914 

©CI.A36981G 
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Inception and Origin of This Book 



At a regular meeting of the Philemporium Society of the 
Commercial College of Kentucky University the following reso- 
lution was unanimously adopted : 

Study Hall, 

Commercial College of Kentucky University, 

Lexington, Ky. 

WHEREAS, General Wilbur R. Smith, the honored and beloved Pres- 
ident of the Commercial College of Kentucky University, has responded 
to this Society's request by giving some "Reminiscences of his one-quarter 
of a century as an educator of thousands of young men," and other inter- 
esting and instructive sketches, including different positions of honor and 
trust which he has filled; 

WHEREAS, Believing his successful career and life devoted to use- 
fulness, if written and published, would be an incentive to higher and 
nobler things in life, and worthy the emulation of all young men, and 
believing such a book would be appreciated by his thousands of graduates 
ail over the world; therefore, be it 

Resolved. That the Philemporium Society request General Smith to 
grant the publication of his Biography and Reminiscences by a committee 
representing this Society. 

Signed) R. N. HAMILTON, Jr., 

President Philemporium Society. 

THE REQUEST 

General Wilbur R. Smith: — 

We, the undersigned committee, bog leave to present you, in this 
formal manner, the accompanying resolution, unanimously adopted by the 
Philemporium Society of the Commercial College of Kentucky University, 
and sincerely trust that you will grant us the request contained therein. 

The committee appointed by the Society beg leave to suggest the 
following persons to assist in compiling and doing the stenographic work 
in the publication: 

Miss Margaret Chaoman, of Ohio; 

W. K. Routt, many years teacher in the Business Department; 

W. W. Smith, many years your teacher and secretary. 

Very respectfully, 

R. N. HAMILTON, President, 

E. L. KINTER, 

Committee. 

REQUEST GRANTED 

After a conference with the aforesaid committee, composed 
of teachers and students of his College, General Smith complied 
with their request. 

Lexington, Ky. 
The Editors of the publication have been associated with General 
Smith as teachers in his College, or as secretary, for one-fifth to one- 
quarter of a century, which close contact has given them ample oppor- 
tunity to gain directly, or by interviews and corespondence, the informa- 
tion cantained in this bouk. These interesting facts, though novelistic and 
inspiring, from which valuable lessons may be learned, need no ornamental 
rhetoric to emphasize their value. 

W. K. ROUTT, ) __.. 

( Editors. 
W. W. SMITH, 



TABLE OF CONTENTS 



(Each Chapter is Prefaced by Table of Contents.) 

Origin or Book. 
Preface. 

CHAPTER I. 

His Boyhood and Young Manhood days. 

Ancestors, settled in Connecticut 1G28. See Bible record, 1744. 

Paternal and Maternal Ancestors. 

Member of — 

Sons of Revolution. Washington Society. 

One of the Charter Members of the Kentucky Society of 

Sons of the Revolution. 
Officer for years of Kentucky Society of Sons of the Revolu- 
tion. 
Triennial Delegate of Kentucky's Society at the meeting of 
the National Society of Sons of the Revolution. 

CHAPTER II. 
Young Manhood Days. 

Attending Public School, also his Father's College. 

Keeping books for a Mercantile Firm, also for Flour Mill and other 

enterprises. 
Receives instruction in Shorthand and other studies at spare time. 
Endeavors to acquire a professional education. 
Tribute to his Pastors and Teachers. 
His Family. 
Earning his first dollar. 
Triumphantly meeting a crisis. 
Letter of recommendation from his first employer. 
Tribute to his Parents. 
Beginning of his thirty years' Presidency of the Commercial College 

of Kentucky University. 
G-ives five hundred dollars to start a fund to build a gymnasium at 

Kentucky University. 
Gives five hundred dollars for a Bowman Scholarship to perpetuate 

the name of Ex-Regent, John B. Bowman, with Kentucky 

University. 



Table of Contents 5 

The beginning of a business publication formed in early days, 
which was awarded Medals and Diplomas of Honor from 
two, great World's Expositions. 

His arrival in Lexington, a stranger. 

CHAPTER III. 

Religious Part op Life. 

Ancestors were churchmen, some deacons, over two hundred and 
fifty years ago. 

Church activities : Teacher of Sunday School, Superintendent of 
Sunday School, Officer in Church. 

Gratitude to his Pastors and Sunday Schoo 1 Teachers. 

Having his old home pastor elected Chaplain of the National Asso- 
ciation of Mexican War Veterans. 

Secretary in the evangelistic work at Lexington, Kv., of Dr. George 
F. Pentecost, D. D., and Maj. Hilton. 

Chairman of Reception Committee of Kentucky Synodical Cen- 
tennial Anniversary of Presbyterian Church. 

Promoter of Men's Church Club ^Brotherhood' of the Second Pres- 
byterian Church and some of the topics discussed at its 
meetings. 

First meeting of the Presbyterian Brotherhood in National Con- 
vention at Indianapolis, Ind. 

Articles signed by nien of the Second Presbyterian Church for 
Brotherhood organization. 

Reminiscence of how a great Revival was conducted. 

On various occasions served as Chairman of annual meetings find 
toast master at church banquets. 

Presented with a seal ring by Brotherhood of Second Presbyter ia a 
Church. 

CHAPTER IV. 

A Successful Educator. 

General Smith's College work for thirty-five years in educating 
nearly fifteen thousand young men and women for a higher 
and more lucrative field of usefulness. 

He increased the earning power (salary and income) of his 
students nearly one million dollars annually. 

His College visited by a member of the Australian Parliament, am' 
other distinguished men. 



6 Wilrtlr 1?. Smith 

Exercises of the Twenty-fifth Anniversary of his connection with 
Kentucky University, including distinguished speakers, Gov- 
ernor Brad lev, State Superintendent MeChesney, and others. 

Presentation of Silver loving cup. A tribute paid him at a Ken- 
tucky University Banquet by a graduate, who was afieiward 
Dean of. Law College of Transylvania University 

Change of name of Kentucky University, by State Legislative enact- 
ment, to Transylvania University and transfer of the Com- 
mercial College of Kentucky University to General Smith. 

Resolutions offered and Sheffield pitcher presented him. by Officers 

of Kentucky University at their last meeting. 
Incorporating the Wilbur E. Smith Business College. 

CHAPTER V. 

World's Columbian Exposition. 

Commissioner from Kentucky to World's Columbian Exposition, 
1893. Appointed by Governor John Young Brown 

Juror of Award at World's Columbian Exposition. 

Reminiscences of World's Columbian Exposition, where he met 
many distinguished men. 

Reception given at the Kentucky building of AVorld's Columbian 
Exposition to Hon. John G. Carlisle, Secretary of the United 
States Treasury. 

CHAPTER VI. 

United States Senator W. 0. Bradley. 

At the Centennial of Incorporation of Augusta, Ky. 
Appointed Colonel in 1895, and served three years. 

Adjutant General of Kentucky under Governor Bradley. 
Christening Battleship Kentucky. 

Various trips with Governor Bradley, meeting prominent people. 
Accompanied Governor Bradley on a visit to President-elect 

William McKinley, Canton, Ohio. 
Reception at Executive Mansion. 
Camp Wilbur Smith. 

Meeting General Alger, Secretary of War. 
Reminiscence of mobilization of ten thousand troops at Camp 

Hamilton, Receptions, etc. 
Governor Bradley entertains Generals of the U. S. Army and Staffs, 

at the Governor's Mansion. 



Table of Contents 7 

Important suggestions concerning the State Militia. General 

Smith's resignation as Adjutant General. 
Election of Governor Bradley as United States Senator. 

CHAPTEE VII. 

Efforts for Freedom of Cuba. 

Reminiscences of an U. S. Consul to Cuba influence Gen. Smith to 
champion her freedom in after years. 

Promoter of the first mass meeting in the United States, advocat- 
ing Cuban freedom. Collecting funds for Cuban Patriots. 

Securing the mobilization of the State troops at Lexington, Ky. 

Requests Governor Bradley for a commission to raise a Regiment. 

He visits Cuba. 

Meeting General Gomez, Commander-in-Chief of the Cuban Army. 

His visit to Morro Castle. 

Visits Castle Atares, where Crittenden was shot by Spanish soldiers. 

Meets Mai. James Bryant at Matanzas, Cuba. 

CHAPTER VIII. 

Mexican War Veterans. 

Made honorary Member of National Association of Mexican War 
Veterans and then their Secretary and Treasurer. Planning 
and assisting in carrying out their annual programme at 
meetings in different cities. 

Successful campaign for increase of Mexican War Veterans' pen- 
sions by Congress. 

Presentation of Badge of Honor by the National Association of 
Mexican War Veterans. 

CHAPTER IX. 

Heed Many Positions of Honor and Trust. 

Appointed by Mayors of Lexington, different Governors of Ken- 
tucky, and by the President of the United States to posi- 
tions of honor and trust. 

In Social, Patriotic, Historical and Fraternal Societies. 

Also in Banks and other organizations. 

Member of Lincoln Centennial Celebration Committee at Lincoln's 

old home. 
An Odd Fellow and E. A. Mason. 
In Financial and Banking Concerns. 



8 Wij.hub R. Smith 

Other positions. 

Newspaper Editor. 

Promoter of Press Club and Director of City Library. 

Law and Order League. 

Member of Board of Education. 

Appointed one of the first Park Commissioners. 

CHAPTEE X. 

Chamber of Commerce. 

Charter Member of Chamber of Commerce and for ten years its 

Director, Y ice-President and President. 
Entertains State Capital Removal Committee. 
Promoter of Kentucky Centennial Exposition. 
Presentation of gold-headed cane by Chamber of Commerce ; Mayor 

Duncan making presentation speech. 

CHAPTER XL 
Social Side of Life. 

Entertains distinguished men, including Justice John M. Harlan, 

of the United States Supreme Court, United States Senators, 

Governors and others. 
Recipient of social courtesies by Governors and other distinguished 

men. 
Personal Reminiscences on visiting his son at Phillips- An dover 

Academy and at Yale Universit}^. 

CHAPTER XII. 
National University. 

University of the L'nited States. Member of its Executive Com- 
mittee. 

Its Object. Justice Melville W. Fuller, of the United States Su- 
preme Court, presiding. 

CHAPTER XIII. 

Positions and Politics. 

Observation. Advice to Young Men. 

Delegate to County, District, State and National Republican Con- 
ventions. 

Refused Apointments to Different Offices. 

Held Resonsible Positions Under Two Presidents, Two Go^eronrs 
and Two Mayors, of Different Political Views. 



Table or Contexts 9 

CHAPTEE XIV. 

Appointed Postmaster at Lexington. 

Appointed by President Taft July 22, 1911. 
History Making Epochs. 
Inaugurating Postal Savings Bank. 
Parcel Post. 

Transmission of mail by Electric Interurban. Electric Automobile., 
and attempted by Aeroplane. 

Historic Office. 

Postmaster Tinder President Woodrow Wilson. 
Extracts of Letters from ex-Postmaster General Hitchcock, from 
Postmaster General Burleson. 



ILLUSTRATIONS 



PART FIEST. 

ILLUSTRATIONS OF EVENTS IN THE LIFE OF WILBUR R. SMITH, 

LEXINGTON, KY. 

CHAPTER 1. 

Early Life. 

Wilbur R. Smith (frontis-piece).. 

View of Haddam, Conn., home of paternal ancestors. 

Ephraim Waldo Smith, Father of General Smith, with whom he 

was an educational co-worker for twenty-five years. 
View of Higginsport, Ohio, childhood home and that of maternal 

ancestors. 
The Old Love Homestead, owned by maternal ancestors and fr.mily 

continuously for more than one hundred and five years. 

In consultation. Father, son and grand-son. 

Exterior and interior views of home, at Lexington, Ky. 

Banquet Hall, Mt. Vernon. Sons of Revolution on lawn in front 

of Washington's home. At the tomb of Washington. 
Group picture of Wilbur R. Smith at the ages of four, eight, ten, 

twenty-seven and thirty-nine years. 
Ohio Home. An "Old Kentucky Home/' 
Diploma received from his father, 1869. 

CHAPTER II. 

Hon. John R. Bowman, Regent of Kentucky University. 
Ex-President H. H. White, of Kentucky University. 

"Ashland," home of Henry Clay. 

CHAPTER III. 

Ministers and teachers. 

Group Picture. President of Brotherhood of Presbyterian Church, 
Moderator of General Assembly and for fifty years mission- 
ary to China. Pastors. 

Exterior view of Second Presbyterian Church, Lexington, Ky. 

Ministers of the Second Presbyterian Church During the Past 100 
Years. 



Illustrations 11 

CHAPTER IV. 

Profs. E. W. and W. R. Smith and faculty and one hundred students 
who enrolled at their College in one month. 

Melodeon Hall and Carty Buildings where his College was located 
for nearly thirty-five years. 

Board of Curators of Kentucky University. 

Diploma of Honor from World's Exposition, New Orleans, L i. 

Text Book. 

Gold Medal from World's Exposition, New Orleans, La., 1881-85. 

Jurors of Awards at World's Exposition at Xew Orleans, La., 1881- 
'85. 

Faculty of different Colleges of Kentucky University. 

Diploma of Honor, World's Columbian Exposition, 1893. 

Bronze Medal from World's Columbian Exposition, Chicago, 1893 

View of Chapel of Kentucky University at the Twenty-fifth Anni- 
versary Exercises of Professor Smith's Presidency of its 
Commercial College. 

Gov. Bradley, Lieut. Gov. Tillman, Pres. Milligan, Eev. Collis, 
State Srvpt. McChesney, Speakers at the twenty-fifth Anni- 
versary of his College. 

Facsimile of Letter from President Wm. McKinley. 

Group Picture, including father, himself, and students from fifteen 
states. 

Silver Loving Cup presented on the twenty-fifth Anniversary Ex- 
ercises of his College Presidency. 

Pitcher presented by Officers of Kentucky University. 

Engrossed Resolutions presented Professor Smith by Officers of 
Kentucky University, after more than thirty years their co- 
worker. 

General Smith after thirty-six years, continuous service in educat- 
ing fifteen thousand young men and women. 



CHAPTER V. 

Governor John Young Brown of Kentucky. 

Kentucky Building, World's Columbian Exposition, Chicago, 111., 

1893. 
Building at World's Columbian Exposition. 
Jury of Awards, World's Columbian Exposition, 1893. 

Administration and Machinery Hall, World's Columbian Ex- 
position, 1893. 



12 Wit rub R. Smith 

CHAPTER VI. 

United States Senator, William O'Connell Bradley, of Kentucky. 
"With Governor Bradley and twelve Colonels, the day following Col. 
Bradley's inauguration as Governor of Kentucky. 

Governor Bradley and four Generals, TJ. S. A., with their respective 
chief of staff, at the Executive Mansion, Frankfort, Ky. 

At the Christening of the Battleship Kentucky, with Governor 
Bradley, Miss Christine Bradley and Governor Tyler, 
of Virginia. 

General D. A. Collier and Col. Wilbur Smith. 

Camp Wilbur Smith — three views. 

At Camp Hamilton with Gen. Breckinridge, Gov. Bradley and Gen- 
eral Alger. 

With Governor Bradley and Staff, reviewing thousands of Spanish- 
American soldiers at Camp Hamilton. 

At Camp Hamilton with Governor Bradley and Gen. Alger, Secre- 
tary of War. 

Eight members of Kentucky Legislature (1908) former Pu- 
pils of General Smith. 

CHAPTER VII. 

Six Views in and Around Havana, Cuba. 

Cuba; Morro Castle; General Gomez, and Palace. 
Meeting Major Bryant in Camp, Matanzas, Cuba. 

CHAPTER VIII. 

Mexican War Veteran's Association Gen. E. H. Hobson, 

Ex-Pres., and Capt. W. S. McChesney, Pres., Respectively. 

Presentation of Medal of Honor to General Smith, by Vice-Presi- 
dent McChesney, in behalf of the National Association of 
Mexican War Veterans, in the Governor's Office, Frank- 
fort, Ky. 

The Medal of Honor presented by the National Association of Mex- 
ican War Veterans. 

Mexican War Veterans. Group picture of Mexican War Veterans 
taken on steps of State Capitol, at Indianapolis, Ind. 

CHAPTER IX. 

Facsimile of Commissions of Wilbur R. Smith, from Pres- 
ident Taft also from Governors Bradley, Brown and Wilson. 
Exterior view of U. S. Government Building, Lexington, Ivy. 



Illustrations 13 

CHAPTEE X. 

Lexington Chamber of Commerce Banquet. 

CHAPTER XL 

Justice Harlan, of the United States Supreme Court, with 
Governor A. E. Willson, leaving General Smith's home, 
after a dinner given in their honor. 

CHAPTER XII. 

Hon. Melville W. Fuller, Chief Justice of the United States 
Supreme Court. 

CHAPTER XIII. 

National Republican Convention. Philadelphia, Pa. 

CHAPTER XIY. 

Corridor United States Post Office, Lexington, Ky. 

William Howard Taft, President of the United States. 

Postmaster Wilbur R. Smith, with thirteen of his graduates, em- 
ployed in the Post Office and U. S. Collector's Office. 

Illustration of Epochs in Post Office during Gen. Smith's 

Administration as Postmaster. 

National Association of Postmasters of offices of the First Class, at 
annual session at Atlantic City, X. J., August 26, 1912. 

President Woodrow Wilson, under whose administration General 
Smith was continued as Postmaster. 







—PREFACE: - 



By 
REV. E. G. B. MANN 

Minister, Lecturer and Editor 
A Graduate. 



It is a pleasure to write a foreword for this book which is in- 
tended to set out something of the character and work of one of 
Lexington's most prominent and useful citizens, General Wilbur 
E. Smith. 

The writer's acquaintance with him began while a student in 
the "Commercial College of Kentucky University" more than 
thirty years ago, when General Smith's father, Prof. E. W. Smith 
was in charge of the school and Wilbur E. was a star professor in 
the same institution and was then beginning to be a moving genius 
in the management of its affairs. 

The elder Professor Smith was then beginning to drop the 
reins of the institution, but his able and ambitious son seized them 
firmly and guided the institution to a glorious success. 

Wilbur E. Smith had the dash and spirit of a conqueror from 
the very first and regarded obstacles as only stepping stones on 
which he "mounted to higher things." 

Tbe Commercial College had high standing in its class of 
schools, when he took charge of it, but it was still problematical 
from a financial point of view, and bad only a limited patronage, 
but he has made it known nation-wide, has brought it to large 
financial success, and sent its students to positions of prominence 
and eificiency in many parts of the United States and other 
countries. 

The institution is now known as the Wilbur E. Smith Business 
College and is one of the best known colleges of its kind in the 
world and has contributed its share of influence in making Lexing- 
ton famous as one of the greatest educational centers of the South 



Preface 15 

Wilbur E. Smith has become not only one of the most suc- 
cessful business men of his adopted city, but has been for years a 
leading figure in the councils of his political party and a prominent 
worker and. officer in his church. 

Governor Bradley honored him. several years ago by giving him 
a place on his staff, and President Taft appointed him to the posi- 
tion of Postmaster at Lexington, which position he is filling at 
present with distinction and satisfaction to the public. 

If we are to look for ancestral impress directing the thought 
and purpose of a descendant, loyalty to church, home and country. 
we find it undimmed by descent in the subject of this sketch. Al- 
low me to say that General Smith's ancestry is the very best. 
While each section of the country, claims its prominent people in 
its upbuilding, and refers with pride to their ancestors as states- 
men, financiers, etc., the fame of General Smith's ancestors is in- 
teresting as prominent and God-serving people. He is a descendant 
of the Daniel Brainerd family (grandmother being Esther Brain- 
erd.) Daniel Brainerd was a deacon of the church two hundred 
and fifty years ago, so was his son, all along down the course of time 
we find them to have been church people and. ministers — General 
Smith, himself being a church deacon. 

Of this Brainerd family, fourteen Avere ministers, four mis- 
sionaries, I)n \ id Brainerd being the first American Missionary; 
twenty-nine were -graduates of Yale; four were graduates of Har- 
vard: twenty-nine were inventors: also soldiers in all the American 
wars. The same can be said, of the Hubbard, Love, and Kanarys, 
of both paternal and maternal ancestors, each family had two or 
more ministers thereof. 

General Smith shows the same high regard his ancestors had 
for education and religion by graduating his own children from 
the best colleges and universities and setting before them an ex- 
ample of loyalty and devotion to the church. 

"By their fruits shall ye know them" is a true standard of esti- 
mate... Judged by that standard, the life of General Smith is very 
worthy and commendable, and I am sure the reading of this book 
will be calculated to give hope and inspiration to all its readers. 

The writer of this preface subscribes himself a friend and ad- 
mirer of General Wilbur B. Smith. 

E. G. B. MAKN". 
May 30, 1913. 



General Wilbur R. Smith 

Many years an Educator, Official and Useful Citizen. 



(Ancestry, Sketches and Reminiscences) 

CHAPTER I 

Childhood and Eaely Years. 

birth and parentage, distinguished ancestry and 
splendid environments 

paternal 

Father — Ephraim Waldo Smith. Educator and Lecturer, Business man. 
Great-grand -father — William Smith, Sr. — Colonel in the Revolutionary War. 
Grand -mother — Hannah Hubhard Smith. See Hubbard History. 
Great-grand-mother — Esther Brainerd Smith. See Genealogy of Brainerd 
Family. 

MATERNAL 
Mother — Margaret Love- Smith. An educated Christian lady. 
Grand -father — Alexander Love. Scotch -Irish Presbyterian. 
Great-grand-father — William Kanary. German-French. See family Bible 
record of 1744. 

God-serving antecedents — Deacons, holding other places in church work in 
the Congregational-Presbyterian Church for nearly 250 years — Scotch- 
Irish Presbyterians — Brothers and Sisters — Home in Ohio — Death of 
parents. 

WILBUB RUSH SMITH was born October 23, 1853, at 
Higginsport, Ohio, a beautiful village of nearly one thous- 
and people, situated about forty miles east of Cincinnati, 
Ohio, on the banks of the Ohio river, surrounded by a rich agricul- 
tural district, and named after General Eobert Higgins, of Revolu- 
tionary War fame.. 

The village was often visited by General Ulysses S. Grant, 
when a boy, afterwards President of the United States, and his 
companions, General A. V. Kautz and Admiral Daniel Ammen; 
also Rear Admiral Albert Kautz ; the first two received their ap- 
pointment to the United States Militarv Academy, West Point, 
N". Y., and the latter two to the United States Naval Academy, 
Annapolis, Md., from the congressional district in which this vil- 
lage was located, and their lives were incentives to emulation to 
the village bovs of old Brown county. 




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NOTE. — 'General Smith and family have found much plpasure in vis 
iting this old and historical town; also the home of Rev. Cleveland, the * 
ancestor of President Cleveland; Rev. David Brainerd, the first American § 
missionary, and Rev. David Fields, father of the famous Fields brothers. * 







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PROFESSOR EPHRAIM WALDO SMITH 

Father of General Smith and with whom he was an educational 
co-worker for twenty-five years. 



Ancestry and Early Life. 19 

His parents, Ephraim Waldo Smith and Margaret Love 
Smith, were among the most prominent in that section and 
foremost in educational work, deeds of benevolence and were devout 
members of the Presbyterian Church. The session book, page four, 
of the Presbyterian Church at Higginsport, Ohio, has recorded that 
E. W. Smith and wife were received into that Church May 16, 1852. 

In the veins of his ancestors coursed, a noble strain of blood; 
with them the aristocracy of mind predominated. In all tlie walks 
of professional life, as well as in the pursuits of agriculture, and in 
financial enterprises for generations, they were leaders. These 
splendid people fought not only for the establishment of this Na- 
tion, but gave up their lives that it might be perpetuated. General 
Smith is possessed of that courage of conviction that is his by rig~ht 
of inheritance through the long line of ancestors for centuries past. 

His ancestor, George Smith, settled in Haddam, Connecticut, 
in the year of 1628, and died a few years following. A tomb- 
stone marks the last resting place of him and his family in the old 
village burying ground. Geo. Smith's sons were, mostly, seafaring 
men. Hon. Cephas Brainercl in 1891:, in an address in the Congre- 
gational Church, in Haddam, Connecticut, stated that this Smith 
family originally came from Hertfordshire, England. 

His father, Ephraim Walo Smith, came from old Revolution- 
ary-Puritan stock, and was born July 24, 1820, and reared at 
Haddam, Conn. His grandfather, William Smith, Jr., was born 
July 22, 1780, and died. December 11, 1870. His grandmother, 
Hannah Hubbard Smith, was born February 10, 1777, and died 
April 19. 1817. He is a great grandson of Colonel William Smith, 
who was one of the -guard of honor to General Washington on a 
trip from Boston to New Haven, during the Revolutionary War. 
Lieutenant, afterwards Colonel William Smith, was born in Had- 
dam, Connecticut, 1748, and married Esther Brainerd, October 13. 
1767, and died May 20, 1824 . 

"Whose son art thou, young man ?" Saul's question concern- 
ing David, whose heroism caused the King to feel an interest in 
knowing something of the brave young shepherd's antecedents, is 
a question constantly repeated. A man distinguishes himself and 
we at once seek to know what were the forces of heredity that help- 
ed to make him what he is. 

General Smith's ancestry of Brainerd, Hubbard, Smith and 
Love-Kan ary, were among the oldest and most prominent of the 
New England families and beyond the Atlantic. While each sec- 
tion of this country has its well known families, yet few families 
have an unbroken line of ancestors for two and one-half centuries, 
and more, each generation having borne honored names. 




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Ancestry and Early Life. 21 

Esther Brainerd Smith, General Smith's paternal great 
grandmother was born November 8, 1747, and died Febuary 10, 
1816. 

From records and books of genealogy of the Brainerd family, 
of Connecticut,* we find that Deacon Daniel Brainerd, the great 
grandfather (six generations removed), was born in England, about 
1640, and died at Haddam, Conn., April 1, 1715. He was one of 
the first settlers and owners of Haddam, Conn. He and his son, 
Deacon James Brainerd, were Deacons of the Congregational 
Church, of Haddam. Eev. David Brainerd, of this same family, 
was the first American Missionary. 

Hannah Hubbard* was the maiden name of General Smith's 
grandmother. A more elaborate reference is made to the Hubbard 
family in the family record, of which family came Senator Henry 
Spencer of Haddam, Conn., Nancy Yale, and other cousins. 

His father attended an academy at Middeltown, Conn., 
and settled in Brown County, Ohio, at Clark's Mill, in 1840, 



BRAINERD 
Origin of Name. Lineal Descent. Illustrious Records for Centuries. 

(From the Genealogy of the Brainerd Family in America 1649 to 1908.) 
The origin of the name Brainerd (page 13). The late Dr. Bradley, 
of New Haven, sought the origin of names in the meaning of words. He 
was said to be versed in 16 different languages and traveled in Europe and 
Asia. In his manuscripts on Patrinomatology it is said he searched Eng- 
land for the name of Brainerd, and concluded that it was from a Celtic word, 
noble-Brained. The name Brainard is said to be common in France on 
the border of Germany and the two different ways of spelling the name, 
Brainerd and Brainard, are the French and German ways. In the early 
history of England the Brainerds settled therein. 

Ester 4 Brainerd (pages 64-65, par. 4) (Herber 3 , James 2 , Daniel 1 ), of 
Haddam, Middlesex Co., Conn., married, Oct. 3 3, 1767, Lieutenant William 
Smith, son of Daniel and Martha Smith, of Haddam. He was lieutenant of 
militia, serving in that capacity at Roxbury. He formerly had a powder 
horn with Roxbury drawn on it. Mrs. Ester (Brainerd) Smith died Feb. 
10, 1816, aged 68 years. Lieutenant William Smith died in 1824, aged 7S 
years, in Haddam, Conn., where he had lived. 

William Smith, born at Haddam, Conn.; baptized Jan. 1782; married 
Hannah (Hubbard) Smith. 

"UPHOLDING ANCESTORIAL NAMES 
From this same ancestory, between pages 470 and 485, there is a list 
of soldiers' names in James line who served in the Colonial Wars. The 
French and Indian War, the Revolutionary War, ihe War of 1812, the Mex- 
ican War, the Civil War, the Spanish- American War, and the Philippine 
Islands. 

A list is also given of inventors (29), graduates of colleges (2S), in- 
cluding 9 from Yale, 4 from Harvard, 14 were ministers, 4 missionaries, 11 
were Connecticut legislators, 19 lawyers, 12 doctors. 




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AXCESTRY AND EARLY LlFE. 23 

after being driven from Louisiana bv the yellow fever epi- 
demic, where he had gone from his New England home to engage 
in the cotton business with an uncle. He first stopped at Augusta, 
Ky., to visit his relative, Eev. Brainerd, who lived opposite Augusta, 
where he (Smith) taught school. For more than fifty years he was 
prominent in educational, political and mercantile affairs in South- 
ern Ohio, also as a lecturer. He was a member of the Council of 
Higginsport, and the second Mayor, and a delegate to the district 
convention which nominated Gen. Thomas L. Hamer for Congress, 
who, following his election, appointed Gen. U. S. Grant to 
West Point Academy. He was at the head of a large female 
college. He had interests in cotton mills, was a merchant, 
druggist, and was engaged in the flour milling business, 
saw milling, and boat building, and was a wholesale shipper of pro-' 
duce down the Ohio River in boats. The last twenty-five years of 
his life he was a co-worker with his son as an educator. In 189 5 H 
Gen. Smith published a biography, "Of the Long, Useful and Hon- 
orable Life of Ephraim Waldo Smith, 7 * which contained only briefs 
of his father's lectures and other interesting family matter. Among 
the subjects in the lectures of E. W. Smith were, Character, The 
Princely Merchant, Young Manhood, His Trials and Triumphs, 
The World as It Was and Is, Education, Politeness, The Ocean and 
Its Dead. 

Ephraim Waldo Smith and Miss Margaret Love, were married 
November 22, 1841, Eev. D. Gould officiating. He died January 
29, 1895, after a long and useful career. General Smith's mother, 
when a young lady attended a select school, and was a member of 
the old Ebenezer Presbyterian Church choir. She was a refined 
and educated lady, and in her and his father were the blending of 
splendid qualities. She died November 22, 1879, aged 59 years. 

His maternal grand-parents were of German-French extrac- 
tion; also of Scotch-Irish descent, and lived in Philadelphia, Pa., 
and afterward in Germantown .Ivy., thence at what is known as 
the Old Love Homestead, near Higginsport, Ohio. 

His great grandfather on the maternal side was Charles 
Kanary, who was born in Liningen, Germany, in 1744, and married 
Margaretha Swyers, Philadelphia, Pa., March 31, 1777, which fact 
is recorded in an old family Bible, more than one hundred and 
forty years old, and now in General Smith's possession. Mr. 
Kanary came to America when a young man and served under 
Washington throughout the entire struggle for American Inde- 
pendence. 

His maternal grandfather, Alexander Love, was born in Ire- 
land, May 20, 1774. He was Scotch-Irish, and a Presbyterian, who 
always said grace before meals, emphasizing "Amen." He came 






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Ancestry and Early Life. 25 

to America in 1794. Alexander Love was married to Eleanor 
Kanary, February 13, 1806, and immediately purchased what is 
known as the "Old Love Homestead/' where he took his bride, nee' 
Kanary. He was one of the early Justices. Of this Love family 
there are two ministers and fonr doctors, who are his first cousins. 

His brothers were, William Alexander and Ephraim Waldo, 
both of whom died young. His sisters were, Adeline Plymouth 
and Margaret, who died in early life. Also Hannah Ellen, wife 
of Capt. C. E. Harrison, and mother of Hon. D wight Harrison. 
He and his sister. Delia Aurilla Chapman, are now the only sur- 
viving members. 

The following beautiful tribute was paid to the memory of 
General Smith's mother, in the Herald and Presbyter, December 
?}, 1S79. by Eev. Eichard Valentine, the family pastor: 

FELL ASLEEP IN JESUS— MRS. E. W. SMITH. 

"In both family and church relations she ever maintained a most 
exemplary and beautiful Christian character. Her well-ordered house re- 
ceived and entertained with refined grace and liberality the best society. 
The servants of God were most welcome and with them the happy expe- 
riences of the Christian life were gone over and brighter joys of Heaven 
anticipated. 

"In her life and death she taught her loved ones how to live and die; 
and now on the battlement of glory, waiting and watching, she makes 
Heaven more attractive." 

NOTE — For the Chronology of the Smith-Brain erd-Hubbard famlies, 
1628 to 1913, also S'mith-Love-Kanary, 1744 to 1913, see record in family 
Supplement to this book. 

Holy Bibles which had been read by five generations of General Smith's 
ancestry are now in his possession: dated 1744 and once possessed by his 
great grandfather Kanary; 1S06, one used by his grandfather Love; 1842, 
one used by his parents; 186S. his own; 1884, his family; 1895, Bibles pre- 
sented to his son, Wilbur R. Smith, Jr., by his grandfather Smith during 
his last illness. 

Bibles of the Redmon family were given to other members of that 
family. In these Bibles are contained records of the births, marriages and 
deaths of that family. 

REVOLUTIONARY ANCESTRY. 

General Smith is the great-grandson of Colonel William 
Smith, of Connecticut, who participated in the War of the Revolu- 
tion, and was one of the guard of honor of General George Wash- 
ington on his trip from Boston, Mass., to New Haven, Conn. 

General Smith was unanimously elected a member of the 
Society of the Sons of the Revolution of the District of 
Columbia, Washington, D. C, on January 9, 181)4. His certifi- 
cate of membership, February 2, 1894, was signed by Gov. John 
Lee Carroll, General President; James M. Montgomery, General 
Secretary; L. Johnson Davis, President of the Society; W. H. 





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EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR VIEWS OF HIS HOME, LEXINGTON, KY 

(Twenty-five 3 r ears to date) 



Ancestry and Early Life. 27 

Lowdermilk, Registrar; Charles Gurley, Secretary of the Society in 
the District of Columbia. This Society is for the purpose of per- 
petuating the memory and deeds of the grand sires of Revolu- 
tionary soldiers. 

On February 5th, 1895, he was elected Secretary and Treas- 
urer of the Kentucky Society of Sons of the Revolution ,of 
which lie was one of the incorporators, and was a delegate to the 
National Convention held at Faneuil Hall, Boston, April 9, 1895, 
also in 1897, at Cincinnati, Ohio, and afterwards regularly elected 
as delegate to the Triennial meeting of the National Society at 
Washington. After several years as Secretary, he became one of 
the Board of Managers of this Society. The other mem- 
bers being Maj. 0. S. Tenney. President, Judge Samuel Wil- 
son, John T. Shelby, Desha Breckinridge, Leslie Combs, Lucas 
Broadhead, J. E. Bassett, Louis des Cognets, James Todd, Joseph 
LeCompte, J. H. Curry, W. H. Estill, Dean Baker P. Lee, as Chap- 
lain, was succeeded by Rev. Chas. Lee Reynolds, D. D. Among the 
last to be made members of this Society was Gen. J. E. Bell, U. S. 
Army and General Smith had the honor of endorsing his applica- 
tion. 

At the Triennial meeting at Washington, D. C, on April 19, 
1902, the sessions were held in the parlor of Washington's home at 
Mt. Vernon. 

Members were received by President Theodore Roosevelt at 
the White House, and at Annapolis, Md., by Governor Warfield at 
the State House, where Washington received his commission as 
General-in-Chief of the American Armies. 

The Hon. John Lee Carroll, General President, and in behalf 
of the Society, presented a large silver bowl to the Naval Academy 
after a review of the cadets. 

As an incentive to greater activity and friendly rivalry among 
the cadets it was agreed that one of the graduating class of each 
year who received the highest mark, should have his name en- 
graved on this bowl. 

At the banquet at the New Willard Hotel those who responded 
to toasts were : 

"The Army/' Lieutenant General Nelson A. Miles, U .S. A. 

"The Navy/' Admiral George Dewey, U. S. N. 

"Our French Allies/' Maj. Jules Cambon, French Ambassador. 

On April 9, 1908, he was appointed to serve on the Reception 
Committee at its Triennial meeting of the General Society at Wash- 
ington, D. C, April 27th and 28th. 

The following is a brief review of William Smith's Revolu- 
tionary service and honorable discharge : 




Banquet Hall at Mt. Vernon 



Sons of Itevolution at 
Mt. Vernon 




At the Tomb of Washington 



SONS OF THE REVOLUTION IN SESSION AT MT. VERNON. 



NOTE — The above was photographed April 19, 1902, at the Triennial 
meeting of Sons of the Revolution at Mt. Vernon. 

No other Society is permitted to use Washington's home for holding 
their sessions. 

Gen. Smith is right of door; the lad reclining on the lawn is Wilbur 
R. Smith, Jr. 



Ancestry and Early Life. 29 

On page 89, of the town record of Haddam, of services of Con- 
necticut, men in the War of the Bevolution, furnished by the State, 
is the following : 

"Eighth Begiment, Huntington's 1775, Col. Jedidiah Hunt- 
ington; 9th Company, Aaron Hale, Ensign; Haddam, 9th Corn- 
pan}^, William Smith, Sergeant. The aforesaid William Smith en- 
listed July 9th, 1775; discharged December 17, 1775." 

"The regiment was raised by order of the Assembly at the 
July session, 1775, and was stationed on Long Island Sound, until 
September 14th, when on the requisition from Washington, it was 
ordered to the Boston Camps, and took a post at Boxbury, in Gen- 
eral Spencer's' Brigade. Bemained there until expiration of term 
of service in December, 1775. Adopted as Continental reorganiza- 
tion under Colonel Huntington, for services, 1776." As will be 
seen by the following article he re-enlisted. 

In the Lexington, Ky., Press-Transcript, of January 18, 1895, 
Mr. A. C. Quisenberry, official in the War Department under Gen- 
eral Breckinridge, wrote a four-column article from Washington, 
D. C, on the "Old War Heroes of the Bevolution and thrilling 
events of the celebrated war for Independence with Great Britian," 
in which he says, quoting from Heitman: 

"William Smith (Great grandfather of Wilbur B. Smith, of 
Lexington), participated in the War of the Bevolution and was one 
of the guard of honor to General Washington on his trip from Bos- 
ton to New Haven. William Smith, of Connecticut, Ensign, 19th 
Continental Infantry, January 1st to December 31st, 1776. First 
Lieutenant Company. Betired January 1st. 1777; re-enlisted; re- 
tired January 1, 1781." 

Heitman's Historical Begister of Officers of the Continental 
Army is based on the original manuscript records of the Bevolu- 
tionary War, still on file in the War and Treasury Departments, 
and as far as they go are strictly accurate. 

Mr. Quisenberry's statement is corroborated by the following 
official letter : 

State of Connecticut, 
Adjutant General's Office. 
To Whom It May Concern: Hartford, Nov. 22, 1893. 

William Smith, of Milford. Conn., was a First Lieutenant in Captain 
Elijah Humphre3''s Company of the 6th Regiment, "Connecticut Line." He 
was commissioned January 1st, 1777; appointed Captain — no date. Retired 
by consolidation January 1st. 1781. 

The regiment was recruited in New Haven, Conn., and served in Par- 
son's Brigade under General Putnam. On discovery of Arnold's treason, 
the 6th Regiment (Meig's) was ordered to West Point in anticipation of 
the advance of the enemy. 

A irue copy of the records in this office. 

[Signed] J. G. HEADLEY, 
[SEAL] Assistant Adjutant General. 




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GENERAL WIIiBUR R. SMITH xlT DIFFERENT AGES 




Old Home at Higginsport, Ohio 




"Old Kentucky Home" 

of Hon Matt Adams 

General Smith's first Southern 

Home 



Ancestry and Early Life. 31 

THANKING HIS UNCLE, DIODATE SMITH, AND FAMILY FOR 
REVOLUTIONARY SWORD 

Lexington, Ky., Oct. S, 1S85. 
Mr. Didoate Smith, Haddam, Conn. 

My Dear Uncle: — It is with feelings of profound joy and gratitude that 
I acknowledge the receipt this morning of my great grandfather's sword. 
Words are inadequate to express how I prize the gift, and appreciate the 
honor conferred on me, as being the one suitable on which to bestow so 
priceless a treasure. The family name remains unsullied by any disloyal 
act, unstained by treason's dark designs; and when I look upon that sword 
lying upon my desk before me, I can almost see with what spirit is was 
unsheathed and wielded during the long and mighty struggle for independ- 
ence. Yes, I reverence this venerable heirloom, significant of all that is 
great and good. It shall never be polluted by a traitor's hand, but shall 
ever be employed in defence of American Liberty, the greatest boon vouch- 
safed to man. Allow me, dear uncle, to thank you again for this noble 
tribute of esteem, and wishing you a long and happy life, with love to all, 
I remain, Your grateful nephew, 

WILBUR R. SMITH. 



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DIPLOMA AWARDED BY HIS FATHER IN 1869 

(Diploma represents Commerce, with likeness of father in center) 



Young Manhood. 33 

CHAPTEE II. 

Yountg Manhood. 

School Days. Civil War. Meets General Grant's Father. Acquiring a Busi- 
ness Education. Working on other Educational lines. Teaching at 
Higginspcrt, Ripley, Ironton, O., Charleston, W. Va., and Augusta, Ky. 
Keeping Books for Flour Mill, Mercantile and other Enterprises. 
Reading Law at spare time. Love for his family. Earning first 
dollar. Surmounting a crisis in life. Grateful. Utilizing spare time 
in forming a hook that received awards at two Expositions. 
Beginning his thirty-two years' connection with Kentucky University. 
First impressions on arriving at Lexington, Ky. Meeting Regent John 
B. Bowman, of Kentucky University at "Ashland," former home of 
LTenry Clay. Visits Centennial Exposition. Realization of Regent's pre- 
diction. Endows Scholarship at Kentucky University to perpetuate 
the name of his friend, who did so much for the University., His 
"Old Kentucky Home." 

ILBITK P. SMITH first attended the village school at 
Higginsport. Ohio, under Professors T. J. Spafford, Jolui 
Aides, ISoT; Sarah Porter, 1862; Joseph Young, 1864: 
E. S. Evans, 1865; Athelia Smith; Jennie Harrison, 1865; 
T. C. Yates, 1866, and John M. Pattison, 1867. Prof. Pattison 
afterwards hecame Governor of Ohio. 

At the laying of the corner stone of the new $10,000 school 
building, at his native home, his manuscript on the fifty years 
history of the public schools of Higginsport was placed in a box 
in the corner* stone. 

He received private instruction in Latin at the age of fifteen, 
under Eev. Lee, a Presbyterian minister. 

He acquired his business education under his father and his 
course of instruction in shorthand under Rev. Jones of Portsmouth, 
Ohio. On June 10, 1876, was awarded a Teacher's Certificate, bv 
Benn Pitman, the author, of the Cincinnati University. He read 
Law under Hon. Chilton A. White, ex-Member of Congress. 

He remembers the return of the soldiers of the Civil War, and 
how they were received with music and treated like heroes, one. a 
cousin, Sylvestor Love, who was entertained by his parents on his 
way home on a furlough. 

It is said that when General Morgan's men attacked Augusta, 
Ky., in 1862, one Saturday afternoon, General Smith's father sent 
the family for safety to the old Love homestead. It is told of the 
boy, aged nine years, that he got as far as the "Thomas Hill." just 
out of town, when he jumped off the conveyance, returned and se- 
cured the old family Bible. The npxt day he ran off and returned 



34 Wilbur R. Smith. 

to Higginsport to see if there was going to be a battle, and was 
found at the improvised fort made of baled cotton and hogsheads 
of tobacco with cannons pointing over a gunboat anchored below. 

General Grant's father, Jesse Grant, arrived at Higginsport 
and stopped at the McDonald Hotel on his way from Georgetown, 
his home, in 1866. Young Smith was then a mere lad, and was 
with a crowd of boys who serenaded and called for him, to which 
call he responded and made them a speech. They told him they 
wanted to see him because his son Ulysses was a great general; 
said he, "I could not help it." 

When the Civil War commenced, General Smith's 
father adjourned his college at Cincinnati, and went into 
the mercantile business at Higginsport, Ohio. He also in- 
structed a class in business in a large hall over bis store 
to accommodate sons of his old friends . This class, young Smith 
attended a>t night and assisted his father in the store until he moved 
to Portsmouth, Ohio, in 1869, living on 6th street adjoining the old 
Captain Lodwick homestead. Here he led an active life, although 
only sixteen years of age, by attending his father's College with 
Hon. J P. Leedom, afterwards Member of Congress, and scores of 
others, now prominent men. About this time he entered into the 
employ of Mr. Enos Peed, druggist, to learn the business, but 
stopped to enter the Grammar Department of the public 
High School, a high, graded school, the course of which equaled 
that of many literary colleges and from which he graduated. 
County teachers' examination lists were frequently given to test 
the proficiency of the scholars. Mrs. Mulligan and Miss Warner 
were his teachers, and Prof. John Bolton, Superintendent . 

During his attendance at the above school he kept books for D. 
& D. Ramsey, merchants from 4 to 6 p. m., except on Friday after- 
noons, at which time he received private instruction in Shorthand 
under Pev. Jones, a Welch Minister. At night he taught a class 
in rapid arithmetic and penmanship in his father's college. On 
Saturday afternoons, his only time for recreation, he enjoyed skat- 
ing on the canal and back-water of the Scioto river in the winter 
and during the summer he played base ball, after working hours. 

Gen. Smith, in 1871, returned to Higginsport, Ohio, with his 
parents, and that winter assisted his father in conducting a Busi- 
ness College at Ripley, Ohio. In 1873, at Higginsport and Ironton, 
Ohio; summer of 1874, at Augusta, Ky. . After instructing at the 
aforesaid Colleges of his father from 8 A. M. to 12 M. and 1 to 4 
P. M., he would solicit for students for the school, and answered 
letters after the night sessions which were held from 7 to 9 o'clock. 

In order to economize during his winter session at Ripley, 



Young Manhood. 35 

Ohio, he would start from his home at Higginsport, Ohio, at 5 
o'clock in the morning and walk nine miles to his school, so as to 
be at the college room and have everything ready at 8 o'clock. Fre- 
quently the thermometer was at zero, for which he was thankful, 
because he would save two miles, by crossing the frozen Straight 
Creek, to his destination. 

He assisted in teaching a class of young men at his native 
home, wrote in the office of his brother-in-law, Capt, C. E. Harrison, 
who was United States Assessor of Internal Revenue of the 6th 
District of Ohio. Capt Harrison received his appointment from 
U. S. Grant, upon the recommendation of Hon. John A. Smith, 
Member of Congress from that distrist. Capt. Harrison had an 
enviable record as a soldier. He was in the same regiment as his 
friend, Capt. J. B. Foraker, afterwards Governor of Ohio and 
United States Senator. 

Among his students at Eipley were Arthur Chase, afterwards 
Pastor of the Presbyterian Church, at Denver, Colo., Louis Grim, 
Vice President of a bank, and many other prominent business men 
of the Ohio Valley. 

For several months in 1875. he was a bookkeeper for 
John Boyle & Co., at Higginsport, Ohio, and later was called to 
Charleston, W. Va., to keep books for a mining company and soon 
afterwards engaged in business college work. 

During the spring and summer of 1876, he kept books for 0. 
C. Holden & Co. ; at Higginsport, Ohio. In the fall of that year 
he was called to Lexington, Ivy., to take charge of the Commercial 
College of Kentucky University, with which institution he was ac- 
tively engaged for more than thirty years and which will be referred 
to more especially in another chapter. 

During his school work at Augusta, he would walk from Hig- 
ginsport, Ohio, three miles every morning and then cross the river 
in a skiff, returning home after four o'clock. At noon he would 
read a law book, memorizing part of a chapter while walking home, 
frequently resting under a tree to read part of a chapter of Black- 
stone's Commentaries on the Laws of England, then the first book 
read, by law students. On Saturday he would go to Georgetown, the 
county seat, eight miles from his home, and recite in Hon. C. A. 
White's office, generally under Mr. Waters. 

Among those who attended the session at Augusta were, Hon. 
Theodore Thomas, afterwards State Senator, Denver, Colorado; 
Hon. Thornton Thomas, Attorney-General of Colorado; Hon. 
Robert Green, now (1913) Clerk of the Court of Appeals of Ken- 
tucky ; Wm. Weldon, City Attorney, Augusta, Ky. ; Blackstone 
Ranldns, of Cincinnati, and others. He loaned his law book to 



36 Wilbur R. Smith. 

Theodore and Thornton Thomas before they began actively read- 
ing law, and this might have been the means of their becoming 
lawyers. 

The first dollar he remembers to have earned was at the age of 
thirteen, by two days' work on the farm of Wm. Dugan, just north 
of Higginsport, Ohio. He dropped tobacco plants and was paid a 
gold dollar for his work. He felt prouder of that dollar than he 
did of a profit of several thousand dollars on a piece of property 
sold in after life without much effort on his part. 

"I believe/ 5 said Gen. Smith, "there is a crisis in every young- 
man's life, and that an educated conscience will keep him from 
swerving from the right." 

"There was a time in my life/ 7 said he, "which might be termed 
a crisis, a time when my conviction of what I deemed right was 
asserting itself, and which, by the decision then made, was the 
turning point in my career/' 

"It was when straightening out a set of books for John Bo vie 
& Co., who were engaged in a flour milling business, with a store 
and coal yard connected therewith. It was during the financial pan- 
ic of the year 1875. One day I informed a member of the firm, 
the business manager, that, after looking over the books and work 
of my predecessors that, as the books stood, he would be in debt 
to the firm ,instead of being worth $20,000, as he supposed. My 
words astonished him. I told him that, for years, the only 
stock account opened was that of John Boyle; that the day book 
was not prefaced with an article of agreement between him and 
Mr. Bovle. I further told him that if either should die, as matters 
stood, he would be given credit for about $100 per month as busi- 
ness manager, and this would be considerably offset by his debits. 
The business manager felt uneas}^ until. I made out a statement of 
assets and liabilities. This done, I accompanied him to Cincinnati, 
the home of Mr. Boyle, whom we saw, with his chief accountant. 
I explained to them how matters stood, and arranged the books 
accordingly. At first Mr. Boyle's chief accountant and adviser was 
averse to doing anything of the kind. Although he was about fifty 
years of age, I contended for what I knew was right, and gained 
my point. Soon afterwards I was informed that the distillery was 
to be started, new boilers and equipment being put in the building. 
Imagine my feelings at this information." 

"Although it is now one-third of a century since the above oc- 
curence, yet the feelings, surroundings and scenes are yet fresh in 
my mind. AY h i 1 e I had welcomed the opportunity to serve the firm, 
yet freely resigned my position, for the reason that I thought it 
wrong to receive pay for services in a business which I could not 
ask God to bless. To resign meant to leave the old homestead, 



Young Manhood. 37 

parents and friends, and all who were dearest to me, for I should 
have to seek employment away from home. Nevertheless, I in- 
formed the business manager of the firm that I could not, in justice 
to my conscience, serve his new business interests any longer. I 
did this without consulting any one." 

"When I told my parents of my decision, I received their appro- 
bation. I told them I did not know what I would do to get employ- 
ment without leaving the old home, for I- had given up the best pay- 
ing position there, and one that had been the envy of all young men 
of the village. I hurried up my work on the mill and store books and 
left my books on a balance, receiving a letter of recommendation 
from the business manager, who stated that the senior member of 
the firm would like to have my services in the flour milling busi- 
ness in another town, which I would have accepted, had I not agreed 
to take another position, which, to my great surprise the following 
telegram proffered :'' 

Charleston, W. Va., Sept. 17, 1875. 
You are wanted by a mining - company at $100 per month and board 
for your services. When can you be here, if offer suits? Answer imme- 
diately. 

The following letter is self-explanatory: 

Office of 
JOHN BOYLE & CO. 

Higginsport, Ohio, Sept. 13, 1875. 
To Whom It May Concern: 

Having known Wilbur R. Smith for a number of years, and also hav- 
ing had his services as an accountant in closing our books of years' stand- 
ing and opening another set in double entry, with different books connected 
with same, we, with pleasure, add our testimony with those of his other ac- 
quaintances to his unexceptional business qualifications and unquestionable 
traits of character necessary for a true accountant and business man. 

[Signed] JOHN BOYLE & CO. 

"My experience then and the review of experiences with 
hundreds of young men starting for success is ; that if a young mar- 
is qualified, backed by character and energy, and directed by an 
educated conscience, he will sooner or later meet with success in 
any line or vocation upon which he may enter." 

He was always grateful. When asked why it was that he had 
been so fortunate at various times, he replied : "Any success I may 
have achieved I attribute to my work of love when a boy, and a 
young man, for my now sainted parents/' 

He appreciated what his parents had done for him, often say- 
ing that their legacy was their good name, good example and teach- 
ings, all of which were the richest heritage that they could have 
given him. 



38 Wilbur R. Smith. 

He confided in his mother and sought her counsel; and he has 
said, "Her advice was always wise and sincere, coming from the 
heart, and the confidence reposed in her was never betrayed." 

His education and experience, his sympathy for young men 
striving for successful careers, his own trials and triumphs and 
difficulties, which were stepping stones to greater achievements, 
made him the logical selection as preceptor of the young men of 
the Southland in the great commercial awakening of the once dev- 
astated South. 

The beginning of his connection for 3.2 years with old Kentucky 
University was in this way : On Aug. 14, 1876, while assisting 0. C. 
Holden, a merchant and life-long friend of his family, in his busi- 
ness affairs, Eegent John B. Bowman, made him a call by letter to 
the position of Presiding Officer of the Commercial College of 
Kentucky University. Mr. Holden's affairs needing his attention 
a while longer^ Prof. E. W. Smith, hjs father, represented him in 
a conference with the Eegent. 

On Sunday, September 11, 1876, he was requested to superin- 
tend the Presbyterian Sunday School at Higginsport, Ohio, his old 
home. This was just prior to his leaving for Lexington, Ky., Sep- 
tember 15, 1876.' 



Years afterward, General Smith gave $500 to start a fund for 
the Gymnasium at Kentucky University and in many ways he was 
liberal in showing his appreciation for what Kentucky University 
had done for him when a struggling young man. 

General Smith never forgot a friend, and in order to per- 
petuate the memory of Eegent Bowman with Kentucky University 
after Mr. Bowman's death, in December, 1901, he gave $500 toward 
a scholarship fund in that University to be known as the "John B. 
Bowman Scholarship," and which was referred to in a daily paper. 

(From the Daily Herald.) 
$500 GIVEN TOWAED ENDOWING A CHAIE TO EEGENT 

JOHN B. BOWMAN. 

A movement has been started by certain friends of Kentucky 
University to endow a scholarship or chair in honor of Eegent John 
B. Bowman. The first gift of five hundred dollars was made yester- 
day by General Wilbur E .Smith. His letter to President Jenkins 
follows : 

Dear Sir: 

I hereby subscribe $500 00 toward endowing - a chair or scholarship to 
be known as the "John B. Bowman Fund." 

I would like by this method to have his name perpetuated in con- 
nection with Kentucky University, for which he did so much. 

Sincerely, 

WILBUR R. SMITH. 



Young Manhood. 39 

The most highly appreciated invitation General Smith stated 
he ever received was the following from Ecgent Bowman when he 
was a young teacher : 

KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY 
[Regent's Office] 
Dear Professor Smith: 

I have invited a few friends of the University to meet the Committee 
of the Legislature socially at Ashland at 5 o'clock. I shall be glad to have 
you among the number, and yoxir father, if in the city. 

Yours truly, 

JOHN B. BOWMAN. 

His kindness of heart prompted him to many unostentatious 
acts of benevolence. He has extended the benefits of his business in- 
struction to a number of individuals without charge, recognizing 
true merit and hoping thus to supply a stepping stone to their fu- 
ture industry and success. 

The writing of the manuscript by Wilbur Smith, at intervals 
and while visiting his mother, the nucleus of the book which later 
received the award at two great Expositions, with a profit of $25,000 
from its sale, and the lever that helped to make the Commercial 
College of Kentucky University an Institution of National repu- 
tation, occurred in this way : 

As a digression he reviewed his studies and with a few quires 
of cap paper bound together, and covered with manilla paper, ho 
incorporated his father's works on Business Education and the prin- 
ciples of different books he had kept. 

This book was first shown to Eegent John B. Bowman, of 
Kentucky University, by Prof. Smith's father on his first visit to 
Eegent Bowman, in 1876, to arrange for his acceptance of the 
Presidency of the Commercial College of Kentucky University. 
Eight years afterwards this same bound manuscript was brought 
forth and from its plan and arrangement, was suggested the form 
of a Text Book on Business Education. 

Acting upon an invitation from the United States Commis- 
sioner of Education and from the World's Exposition at New Or- 
leans, La., his father took the exhibit to this Exposition and there 
received the award of Gold Medal and Diploma of Honor. 

Eobert Clark, Book Publisher of Cincinnati, Ohio, an 
old friend of General Smith's father, kindly assisted in getting 
this book printed. The typesetting and electrotypes cost about 
$2,000 and as the books were needed he would pay for them. 

As soon as the award was announced, Prof. Smith advertised 
it in 1,000 newspapers, borrowing the money to pay for the same. 
His stamp bill alone for sending out advertising matter contain- 
ing announcement of the award, amounted to nearly $5,000 and 
nearly 1,000 students attended his college in one year. 



# .< J22&*'? 





Hon. John B. Bowman, 

Regent Kentucky University (1876) 



President Henry H. White, 

Kentucky University 




ASHLAND, HOME OF HENRI CLAY. 

Owned (187 6) by Kentucky University. 
The home of Regent Bowman and where he entered into contract with Gen. 
Smith to he the President of the Commercial Department of Ken- 
tucky University. 



Young Manhood. 41 



EEACHIXG LEXINGTON", KY. 

General Smith Arrived At Lexington. Ky., Without Influential 
Friends, Until His Sterling Worth Had Won Them. 

He came from a section that was fast making a brilliant and 
wonderful history, to a city around which clustered historical as- 
sociations, rich in traditions, with its beautiful homes, and where 
on the streets could be seen men famous in State and National af- 
fairs and the records of whose ancestors were no less brilliant- 
through the maze of half a century. 

He felt like repeating what Henry Clay once said : "I am bet- 
ter off than Moses, he came within sight of the promised land, — ■ 
I am within it:" 

In this setting: of scenery and inspiration he was received by 
the good and hospitable people of Lexington, then at the pinnacle 
of her greatest glory, the culmination of the old and the beginning 
of the new Lexington. 

He first called on Hon. John B. Bowman, Eegent of Kentucky 
University, at his historic home, "Ashland,'"' the former home of 
Henry Clay, which was then owned hy the University and formed 
a part of the eastern boundary of Lexington. He was deeply im- 
pressed with the man who afterward, did so much for him. Eegent 
Bowman was a nobleman, gracious, courtley in bearing, and whose 
presence was an inspiration and a benediction to him. His greet- 
ing was most cordial for the young man and his felicitation for and 
prediction of his successful connection with the University cast a 
strong anchor of gratitude, love and admiration in his heart for 
this great man. His prophecy was verified nearly twenty-five years 
later at the home of Prof. John S. Shackleford, when he was al- 
lowed for the last time to visit the Eegent, then a verv sick man, 
when he said: "You have made a success, as I predicted, and 
one thing is true of your appointment, it has never been protested." 

It is also said of General Smith that over thirty-five years ago 
he called at the office of the old Daily Press, located on the S. W. 
corner of Short Street and Cheapside, Lexington, Ky., one Satur- 
day evening, a smooth-faced young man who told Col. Henry T. 
Duncan, then editor of the aforesaid paper, and afterwards Mayor 
of our city, that he had just arrived with a limited amount of 
money, and a stranger, and that he had been called to take charge 
of the Commercial Department of Kentucky University and would 
like to place a notice in the paper of the next session of that College. 

Upon Col. Duncan's recommendation afterward, Gen. Smith 
loaned the city of Lexington several thousands of dollars, daring 



42 Wilbur R. Smith. 

Mayor Chas, W. Foushee's administration, to pay firemen and po- 
licemen and others whose accounts were long - past due. Banks had 
refused to make the loan, as the limit of indebtedness by the citys 
charter had been reached. Through his instrumentality several 
thousand dollars' worth of the city's bonds were sold 

Referring to his coming South he said, "On my arrival at Lex- 
ington, I knew no one South of the Ohio river. Influenced by the 
advice of an educated Christian mother who assured me that I 
would find good people wherever I went, and that all depended up- 
on my first step, I reported to the pastor of my church." 

"I was received at the homes of good Presbyterian families 
with whom to board was to enjoy the real hospitality for which 
Kentucky is proverbial." 

"I was first received as a member of the household of Mrs. 
George Madison Adams, whose residence was a large pillared build- 
ing of the ente-bellum southern style, which occupied the present 
site of the Patterson Hall, the girls' dormitory of State University. 
Mrs. Adams was a lady of rare culture and refinement and took a 
motherly interest in the Northern young man. She was an aunt of 
Justice Miller of the U. S. Supreme Court, and a sister of Speaker 
White of the House of Representatives. Congressman Mat Adams 
and Congressman John D. White were her nephews. Her husband, 
who had amassed a fortune in the Kentucky highlands, proffered a 
loan of $300,000 to the Government at the beginning of the Civil 
War. 



Religious Life. 43 

CHAPTER III. 
Religious Life. 

Prominent ancestors church Deacons over two hundred and fifty years ago 
David Brainerd first American Missionary, also Brainerd, one of the 
first Trustees of Princeton University of same ancestry. Tribute to 
his parents, pastors and teachers. After thirty years' separation 
recognizes former pastor's voice and has him elected Chaplain of N. 
A. M. W. V. United with the First Presbyterian Church in Ports- 
mouth, Ohio, in 1870. His children, four sons and two daughters, 
baptized in the church. His Wife was President of the Pastor's 
Aid Society. Memorial Pulpit given to the Presbyterian Church. 
General Smith was Sunday School Teacher, and Superintendent of 
Mission Sunday School. An Officer of the Second Presbyterian 
Church. Lexington, Ky., over twenty years. Representing the 
church on Y. M. C. A. Board of Directors; Trustee of church; Deacon. 
Letters of appreciation of his service from co-workers. Promoter of 
Brotherhood. Its President — Delegate to its first National Meeting. 
Seal gold ring presented to him by Brotherhood. Toastmaster at 
church banquets. Chairman of Reception Committee of Centennial of 
formation of Synod of Kentucky, during which time both the Northern 
and Southern branches communed together, the first time since the 
Civil War. Entertained prominent divines. Accompanying students 
to church and Sunday school. How great revivals were conducted. 
The old time social feature of its members. Program of Brotherhood's 
welcome to Rev. Charles Lee Reynolds, D. D. Committeeman in the 
Gospel Revival Meetings conducted by Evangelists Mills and Pentecost. 

WILBUR R. SMITH was blessed by the early influence of pious 
Christian parents, both of whom, as has been stated ,were 
members of the Presbyterian Church at Higginsport, Ohio. 
At his native home he met ministers of different denominations 
who came to the village to preach the Word at their respective 
churches. His native town was like a large family, whose interests 
and beliefs, though different, each one entertained for the othei 
a brotherly consideration. Each would attend his or her own 
church; the services being arranged so as to have a pulpit filled 
every Sunday morning and evening, alternating between the Pres- 
byterian and Christian ministers in their respective churches. The 
Methodists generally had their services on Sunday afternoons. The 

NOTE. — Deacon Daniel Brainerd, General Smith's grandfather (six 
generations removed) and his son, Deacon James Brainerd, were deacors 
of the Congregational Church, Haddam, Connecticut, over 250 years ago. 

Webster in his history of the Presbyterian Church, published over 50 
years ago, contains the biography of two ministers of this Brainerd family; 
David Brainerd, the first American missionaiT, born at Haddam, Conn, 
April 20, 1718; also his brother, John Brainerd. David was at the head of 
his class at Yale University, and John graduated. 



44 Wilbur R. Smith. 

Presbyterian Sunday School was held in the morning, and Chris- 
tian Church Sunday School in the afternoon. Frequently the same 
teachers taught in both schools, the majority of the scholars attend- 
in both schools. All this influenced him in after life to be con- 
siderate of the views of others. 

The Presbyterian ministers to whom he always referred as 
the moulders of his religious belief during his early years were 
Reverends Head, Vandyke. Warren, 1860; Lee, Pratt, Pollock and 
Valentine, 1875, and also Lane Theological Seminary Seniors, who 
frequently supplied the village pulpit. 

The Sunday School Superintendents were, Elders Frank King 
and Orrin Doty. His Sunday School teachers were, Misses Kate 
Maxwell and Jenny Harrison, also Capt. E. E. Harrison. The 
pastors of the Christian Church, which he also attended, were 
Reverends Matthew Gardner, White, Daugherty, Garoutte and 
Mefford. The Superintendents of the Christian Church Sunday 
School, were Irvine Ellis, Elias Dillman, and William Yearsley. 
He and his sister presented to the Presbyterian Sunday School of 
his native home a library as a slight token of their remembrance of 
its assistance to them in their early life. He has been one of its 
almost constant financial supporters. 

"That voice I heard when a lad," was the remark made by 
General Smith at Cleveland. Ohio, in 1901, when, as secretary and 
honorary member, was enrolling the names of the old Mexican 
War Veterans at one of its National meetings, as a gentle- 
man from over his shoulder gave him a name. "Is not that 
my old pastor, Rev. Warren, whom, though I have not seen or 
heard for more than thirty years, has never been forgotten ?" 
Gen. Smith then said, "You came to help the village people when 
I' was a lad, and now you have come again to open this meeting with 
prayer, when we were endeavoring to secure the services of a min- 
ister." Upon motion of General Smith, Rev. Warren was elected 
Chaplain of the National Association of Mexican War Veterans. 

While at Portsmouth, Ohio, in 1870, he united with the First 
Presbyterian Church under the pastorate of Rev. E. P. Pratt ,D. D. 
It was during a protracted service in which Rev. Brice assisted. His 
mother counseled him to take that step, his sister Delia uniting at 
the same time. He was baptized with water brought from the River 
Jordan in the Holy Land, by Superintendent Bell of that Sunday 
School. Miss Carrie Stearns was his Sunday school teacher, and 
Mr. John Murray was leader of the Young Men's Prayer Meeting, 
which he attended Sunday afternoons. At one of these meetings, 
Mr. Murray endeavored to have two of his class attend the Marietta 
College to be educated for the ministry, which General Smith was 
almost persuaded at that time to do. 



OTHER MINISTERS AND INSTRUCTORS OF GENERAL SMITH 




MINISTERS^TEACHERS 



1. Rev. E. P. Pratt, D. D., Portsmouth, Ohio. 

4. Rev. Richard Valentine, pastor of his old home church, and friend for 

many years of his parents. 

2. Governor John M. Pattison, his former instructor. 

3. Mr. Robert Bell, Superintendent First Presbyterian Church Sunday 

School, Portsmouth, Ohio. 

5. Prof. John Bolton, Superintendent High School, Portsmouth, Ohio. 




1. John Clark Hill, Chairman of Committee of Presbyterian Brocherliood. 

2. Mr. John H. Coverse, Philadelphia, Pa. It was at Indianapolis, Ind., 

at the first Brotherhood meeting that Gen. Smith met Mr. Hugh 
Hanna, chairman of first Brotherhood meeting, Vice Moderator 

cf the General Assembly in 1911, at whose home he was a guest 

and met the distinguished men of this group. 

3. Rev. Hunter Corbett, D. D., for fifty years a missionary at Chefoo, 

China, of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in 
1906 — a Moderator. 

4. Rev. Chas. Lee Reynolds, D. D., pastor of the Second Presbyterian 

Church when Gen. Smith was ordained a Deacon, April 28, 1907. 



46 Wilbur R. Smith. 

Returning to Higginsport, lie placed his church letter in the 
Presbyterian Church at that place, March 23, 1872, Rev. S. P. 
Dillon, Moderator and Orrin Doty, Clerk. He taught a class in 
the Presbyterian Sunday School of thirteen young girls, at his na- 
tive home, some of whom were his college patrons later. His opin- 
ion of the. high and sacred office of the Eldership of the church 
caused him not to accept such a spiritual office at one time. Elder 
Shilling spoke to him at his native home when he had scarcely 
reached his majority about accepting an Eldership. At Charleston, 
W. Va., he attended Rev. Barr's church. 

At Lexington his pastors were, Rev. Wm. Christie, D. D., re- 
cently President of Alleghany Theological Seminary, Rev. Geo. P. 
Wilson, D. D., now at Washington, D. C, and Rev. W. S. Fulton, 
D. D., now at Pittsburg, Pa., Rev. R. 0. Kirkwood, now of New 
York, and the present pastor, Rev. Charles Lee Reynolds, D. D., 
1913. 

The ministers of this church were recognized for consecration, 
high scholarship, fine personality and as leaders of thought on civic 
and public questions. They were called from this pastorate to 
metropo li tan eh ureh es. 

He and his wife placed their membership in the Second Pres- 
byterian Church, Lexington, Kv., at the same time. Their chil- 
dren, Waldo Reclmon Smith. Wilbur R. Smith, Jr., George Chafee 
Smith, Anne Marguerite Smith, Lila Delia Smith, and Godfrey 
Brainerd Smith, were made children of the covenant by rights of 
baptism. 

The pulpit of the church is a memorial to Waldo Redmon 
Smith, whom his parents had dedicated to the ministry, but whose 
earlv death, October 27, 1837, prevented him from fulfilling this 
earthly ministry. 

When General Smith arrived in Lexington he Avas impressed 
with the quietness of its Sundays. The Bible class which he at- 
tended was conducted by Dr. John W. Scott, an Elder of the church, 
a retired physician, a graduate of old Transylvania University, a 
most highly cultured gentleman in Biblical knowledge. In this class 
were also General John B. Houston, General S. W. Price, Dr. L. B. 
Todd, Assistant Postmaster, Robert Bosworth, and other prominent 
men, and a half score of ladies. 

On November 13, 1883, General Smith was elected a member 
of the Board of Trustees of the Second Presbyterian Church, Lex- 
ington, Ky., and was re-elected for eleven consecutive years, also 
as Secretary until he resigned. 

Those who were Trustees during the above time and afterward 
with him were: Slaughter Bassett, Treasurer; Win. Curran, 
Chairman; Robert Bosworth, J. M. Scott, Chas. Stoll, Thomas 



PASTORS OF THE SECOND PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH DURING ITS 
FIRST CENTURY— 1815 TO 1915. 



James McCord 
1815-1820 

Thomas C. Harvey 

(Associate) 

1817-1818 

John Joyce 

(Associate) 

1819-1820 

Robert H. Bishop 
1820-1823 

John Breckinridge 
1823-1828 

John C. Young 
1828-1830 

Robert Davidson 
1831 or 1832-1840 

John D. Matthews 
1841-1844 or 1845 . 

John H. Brown 
1846-1853 



Preset 'church 

(ExiNqTON.KY. 

>- • — %-~y~ j 




Robert G. Branck 

1S54-1867 

Richard Valentine 
Supply 1867 

Edward H. Camp 
1868-1869 

George W. F. Birch 
1870-1873 

Robert Christie 
1873-1879 

George P. Wilson 
1880-1884 

William S. Fulton 
1884-1901 

Robert O. Kirkwood 

1901-1905 

Charles L. Reynolds 

1905-1913 
(Incumbent) 



SECOND PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
Lexington, Ky. 

This Church is one of the oldest west of the Alleghaney 
Mountains. 



The first Christian church established in Lexington, Ky., was or- 
ganized in 1784 by Presbyterians, located on the site at the southeast corner 
of Walnut and Short Streets. The present Second Presbyterian Church was 
dedicated July 30, 1815. The present edifice was built on the site of the old 
building in 1S47. (Ranck). 

General Smith was an officer of this church for over 20 years. 

Member and Secretary of its Board of Trustees. 

Teacher and afterward Superintendent of one of its Mission 

Schools. 

Its Representative on Board of Directors, Y. M. C. A. 

Promoter and President of Brotherhood. 

Ordained a Deacon. 



48 Wilbur R. Smith. 

Hamilton, E. D. Warfield, J. T. Tunis, Frank Norton, W. W. 
Patterson, Dr. W. B. McClure. Dr. M. T. Scott, Edward Baasett, 
E. E. Blaine, Wm. Stoll, IT. M. Skillman, Dr. John Scott, Chap. 
Hottes, H. G. Van Orsdell. 

Several of the above, as well as others, have been Trustees since. 
He always felt that a change in service or rotation in 
office in temporal affairs of the church and Y .M. C .A., was best 
and requested another to be selected in his place as Trustee and Di- 
rector, respectively. The following letters from the Board of Trus- 
tees of the Second Presbyterian Church, and Director of the Y. M. 
C. A., are fitting testimonials from his co-workers in the church 
and the Association : 

My Dear General Smith: 

From our conversation some days ago I feared that there was doubt 
as to your being willing to serve longer on the Board of Trustees. Our 
church needs the efforts of us all, and I feel sure that you cannot refuse 
to serve her in a capacity for which you are so peculiarly fitted, especially 
as to your zeal in all church work. This board would especially welcome the 
co-operation of one of your nature and judgment and recognized ability, 
your excellent work as Secretary having been a, tradition in the Board for 
many years. We desire you in the same capacity again and earnestly hope 
that you will see your way clear to assist us. 

Very truly yours, 

JOHN W. SCOTT, 
(Chairman Board of Trustees.) 



Lexington, Ky., Jan. 24, 1896. 
Dear Sir: — I am instructed to express to you the Board's appreciation 
of your past work and their regret of your determination to sever your 
connection with them as Director, and to say they felt sure of your con- 
tinued interest and sympathy in the general work. 

R. D. NORWOOD, 

Secretary Y. M. C. A. 



Of the session for the time referred to, the following have gone 
to their abundant reward : Dr. John W. Scott, George W. Norton, 
Judge Kinkead, Wm. Christie. Frederick Bush, Dr. Lyman Beecher 
Todd, Squire Bassett, James A. Curry and J. E. Sharpe. 

Eev. George P. Wilson when pastor of this church once said, 
"My Elders are the grandest of any I know. Spiritually, with a 
knowledge of the Bible, church history and its doctrine, they are an 
inspiration to me." At a certain time there were four Elders in 
this church whose terms of office were between a quarter and a 
third of a century of service. They Avere Elders Jas. A. Curry. 
J. E. Sharpe, Wm. Bush and Squire Bassett, respectively. 



Religious Life. 49 

Gen. Smith was ordained a Deacon of the Second Presbyterian 
Church, Lexington, Kentucky, April 28, 1907, during the pastorate 
of Eev. Chas. Lee Eeynolds. 

March 3, 1911, he was elected toastmaster at a banquet 
in the lecture room of the church following the annual meet- 
ing of officers and members of the Second Presbyterian Church, 
at which time Elder John E. Sharpe, for 36 years superintendent of 
its Sunday School, was presented with a silver pitcher. 

On July 12, 1905, at a meeting of the congregation in the 
transfer of Eev. Eobert 0. Kirkwood, of the Second Presbyterian 
Church, to the Walnut Hills Church, Cincinnati, Ohio, General 
Smith was appointed one of the commissioners to present to 
the Presbytery Mr. Kirkwood's resignation, and to unite with him 
in requesting the dissolving of his connection with the Second Pres- 
byterian Church of Lexington, Ky. 

In 1883 he was Superintendent of the Corral Street 
Mission School, with about one hundred and fifty attendants. He 
succeeded "Dr. John W. Scott, St.. in that Avork by his (Scott's) 
personal request. Elder James A. Cnrry succeeded him as Superin- 
tendent in 1885. Throughout the land he has met men and boys 
who were enthusiastic in their repeated acknowledgement for the 
benefits derived at the mission. 

He was a regular attendant at the Y. M. C. A. services and 
young men's prayer meeting, and for thirteen years director in the 
association with the following directors : Prof. Chas. Louis Loos, 
Maj. H. B. McClellan, J. A. Curry, Wm. Curran and J. N. 
Hawkins. 

In December, 1909, he was a member of the Citizens 7 Com- 
mittee of fifty, appointed to raise $50,000 for the Y. M. C. A., 
which was accomplished in twelve days. 

He was Chairman of the Centennial Committee of entertain- 
ment October, 1902, it being the one hundredth anniversary of the 
formation of the Synod of Kentucky, when the Northern and 
Southern Synods met in Lexington and communed together for the 
first time since the Civil War. 

In the great revival union meeting held in April, 1895, and 
conducted by Eev. B. Fay Mills, held at the Exposition building 
under the auspices of the Protestant churches of Lexington, he was 
chairman of an important committee and was in frequent consulta- 
tion with Dr. Mills. 

He was promoter of the Men's Club or Brotherhood of the 
Second Presbvterian Church. 



50 Wilbur R. Smith. 

The following preamble was presented to every male mem- 
ber of the church : 

Reaffirming our faith in God as revealed in His Holy Word and in- 
corporated in the doctrine of the Second Presbyterian Church of Lexington, 
Kentucky, and wishing to increase its usefulness in advancing Christ's 
Kingdom, we unite in this request that the male members and attendants 
of the aforesaid church meet at a place and time hereafter to be an- 
nounced for the purpose of organizing a Men's Religious and Social Club. 
We believe that sympathy, unity and fellowship should characterize Christ's 
followers. We pledge our support to this Club, also to attend its meetings, 
and to do whatsoever is assigned us to make the object of the Club a 
success. 

This paper was signed by fifty male members of the church, 
among whom were Elders, Deacons, Trustees and others. 

This Brotherhood presented him with a beautiful seal ring in 
recognition of his services and their high regard. 

The first step taken to organize the Men's Club of the Second 
Presbyterian Church was in October, 1902, following the Centennial 
celebration of the formation of the Kentucky Synod held in Lexing- 
ton. It was first reluctantly announced at church service that there 
would be a meeting of the men at a given date to organize a Men's 
Club of the church. There were misgivings as to the new enter- 
prise, but as to the final results the brotherhood has proved a suc- 
cess. The following are some of the topics discussed at the Brother- 
hood meetings : 

How can the Club be of most service to the Church ? By Eev. 
E. 0. Kirkwood. 

How can the Club assist in getting young men to attend Sunday 
School? Elder J. R. Sharpe, Superintendent of Sunday School. 

Brotherly Love, by Elder Wm. Bush. 

The parents' duty in having children attend Sunday School 
and Church, by Wm. Curran. 

A lecture on pure food work, by Eobert Allen of Kentucky Ex- 
periment Station. 

Music and Song, their history from Biblical times to the 
present. 

Christian manhood, by Eev. Geo. Joplin. 

Our wards, a sacred trust — the college young man, Col. Geo. 
W. Bain. 

Church clubs have proved a success, by Judge Mat Walton. 

Church clubs a power for good citizenship, by Eev. U. G. 
Foote. 

Scotch Presbyterianism, President Jas. K. Patterson, of State 
University. 



Religious Life. 51 

The four hundredth anniversary of the birth of John Knox 
was celebrated by the Club, May 15, 1905, and described in the 
Leader in its issue the next day as follows: 

WITH ADDRESSES, PAPERS AND APPROPRIATE SONGS. 

The Men^s Club met in the Lecture room of the Second Pres- 
byterian Church, Monday night and a large number were present 
to celebrate the four hundredth anniversary of the birth of John 
Knox, the father of the Presbyterian form of church government. 
General Wilbur R. Smith, President of the Club, requested Secretary 
Carter to read a letter of sympathy which had been received by 
General Smith from Dr. Henry, the moderator of the General As- 
sembly as follows : 

GENERAL ASSEMBLY 
OF THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN THE U. S. A. 

Philadelphia, Pa., May 5, 1905. 
I hope your Men's Club will have a royal time in the celebration of 
the 400th anniversary of the birth of John Knox. He was Scotland's great- 
est son, one of the noblest of the reformers, and a man who, in the per- 
formance of duty, "never feared the face of man." The church does well 
to honor him, and I trust we may all seek to be like him in sincerity and 
fearlessness. Very truly yours. 

ADDISON HENRY. 

After the invocation by the Rev. Mr. Branch, the choir 
sang the Scottish version of the hundredth Psalm as a compli- 
ment to the hero, who was born in 1505. Thereafter the Rev. R. 
0. Kirkwood, the 'minister of the local church, read an interesting 
paper on "The Times of Knox." 

"The Hills o' Skye," was then sung by Mrs. Hiffner with great 
expression, the pianoforte accompaniment being tastefully rendered 
by Miss Lillie Sharpe. 

Prof. A. S. Mackenzie spoke concerning the life of Knox, de- 
picting the stream that ran through the village of East Lothian, 
where he was born thirteen years after Columbus discovered Amer- 
ica. He pointed out that while he sympathized with Queen Mary 
and the Catholic party, it was necessary to assert the freedom of 
the individual. Presbyteriansim was potent in molding the 
American Declaration of Independence. After this address Miss 
Lottie Webb sang, "Happy Lay," accompanied by Professor Faig 
on the violin and Miss Sharpe on the piano. 

President J. K. Patterson next delivered the most interesting 
discourse of the evening, his theme being "The Work of Knox." 
With all the eloquence and learning for which he is noted, the 
orator called attention to the far-reaching influence of his hero up- 
on Scotland and America and through them upon civilzation as a 



52 Wilbur R. Smith. 

whole. He also paid a tribute to the splendid educational system 
founded by John Knox. 

After President Loos had laid stress upon the work of John 
Calvin, the learned Frenchman of the sixteenth century, the choir 
sang a chant of the year 1588, and this was followed by a Scotch 
solo on the part of Prof. Mackenzie. 

President Patterson exhibited a copy of the famous Breeches 
Bible, published in 1609, which had "breeches" instead of "aprons," 
the last word of the 7th verse of the 3rd chapter of Genesis, and 
Prof. Mackenzie exhibited a Cicero of 1617, and a copy of the Con- 
fession of Faith, based on Knox's version of 1560. 

After refreshments the company dispersed, each believing that 
seldom had a happier evening been spent anywhere. 

Elders and Deacons of the First Presbyterian and Maxwell 
Street Churches, as well as a number of Scotchmen were also 
present. This was the last meeting of this successful club until 
the next fall. 

General Smith was a delegate to the First National Meeting of 
the Presbyterian Church Brotherhood held at Indianapolis, Ind., 
November 13, 14 and 15, 1906. Over one thousand delegates were 
present, who represented many of the eight thousand churches of 
the General Assembly and its million communicants, also a million 
Sunday School scholars. 

The Brotherhood movement of laymen who contributed twenty 
million dollars that year for church purposes, was one of the new 
great master strokes of a great church body. 

Mr. John H. Converse, LL. D., presided at this meeting. 

Hon. Hugh Hanna, who was Vice Moderator of the General 
Assembly in 1911, presided at the opening of the session at the 
great banquet. General Smith had the pleasure and honor of being 
a guest at Mr. Hanna's home at a luncheon . Others there were 
the Rev. Hunter Corbet, Moderator, 1906 and for forty-three years 
a missionary in China; John H. Converse, LL. D., Eev. Chas. Lee 
Reynolds, D. D., and Rev. Haines, President Harrison's former 
pastor. 

Giants of the Presbyterian Church were at the Brotherhood 
meetings as Rev. W. H. Roberts, stated clerk of the General As- 
sembly; Revs. Chas. Gordon, ("Ralph Connors") Canada, Ira Land- 
reth, Moderator of the last General Assembly of- the Cumberland 
Presbyterian Church; Wilbur Chapman, Robert Speer, Hon. Wil- 
liam J. Brvan, and many others who spoke on such topics as, 
"The Presbyterian Church, What It Stands For;" "Boy and the 
Church;" "Man and the Church;" "The Men for a Church and 
Civic Affairs;" "Bible Study and Its Ministry;" "Labor Inter- 



Religious Life. 53 

ests and Spiritual life;" "Evangelization of the World;" "Our 
Countrymen." 

Dr. Bigsrer's address was "The Genesis of the Brotherhood" 
the Ohio overture upon which the General Assembly took action. 
The date that Dr. Bigger gave when the Club at Massillon, Ohio, 
was first organized, coinciding with the date of the beginning of 
the first organization of the Brotherhood of the Second Presbyte- 
rian Church at Lexington. It would be difficult to decide which 
church should be entitled to the distinction of having organized the 
first Brotherhood of that great church. 

As toastmaster at a banquet given by this Brotherhood, March, 
1906, in welcoming Kev. Charles Lee Beynolds, he selected the fol- 
lowing toasts, and prefaced the same as follows : 

Prayers Answered, Wishes Furfilled, an Object Attained by God's Will. 

We are called together tonight in fellowship to welcome our pastor, 
Rev. Charles Lee Reynolds. Will Prof. Faig, Vice-President of our 
Club, say a word of greeting? 

Rev. Reynolds Came, He Saw, He Conquored. 

We should like to have Doctor Reynolds tell us a few of his flr»t 
impressions. 

Our Church — Its History 

No one should be indifferent to the history of an organization of 
which he is a member. Therefore, we request Elder J. R. Sharpe, a 
grand nephew of one of the first elders of this church, to respond. 
Our Heritage — An Important Trust. 

A sublime past should be an incentive to noble achievements in 
the future. Therefore, we should like to have Elder James A. Curry 
respond to this toast. 
Watchman, Tell Us of the Night, What the Signs of Promise Are. 

In this case will Mr. Edward Bassett fill the role of watchman? 
Every Organizaton has its Motive for Action. 

A talk on what our Club stands for will be given by Elder William 
Bush. 

Religion and Business. 

This is a business age. It is ours as Christians to witness Him In 
our daily life. Therefore we will hear from Prof. Robert Allen, of th« 

State University. 

*When General Smith was President of this Brotherhood a banquet 
was given at which the ministers and superintendents of Sunday Schools of 
different churches were guests. A representative of each church was called 
upon to respond to a toast. At this meeting it was suggested that an or- 
ganization be effected by the different brotherhoods of churches of Lex- 
ington, looking to a State and National organization. An item appeared in 
the issue of a daily paper following this meeting that 1,000 men of this city 
were expected to be members — a power and influence in politics and for 
good government. 



54 Wilbur R. Smith. 

Hundreds of General Smith's former students will recall his 
Saturday morning lectures; also that he frequently accompanied 
them as a body to church services. Some of them are now Minis- 
ters, Elders, Deacons and Superintendents of Sunday Schools. It 
was the pleasure of his parents to entertain many ministers of God, 
so has his hospitality been extended to God's ambassadors among 
whom were resident Ministers, also Dr. Pentecost ,Dr. Peyton Hoge, 
Dr. Blaney, Eev. Valentine, Bishop Burton, Bishop Penick, Dean 
Lee, Dean Capers and others. 

The Second Presbyterian Church in the '80's was recognized 
for the ideal social times of its young people. In fact, many young 
people of other churches attended its social functions. Parlor 
dramas, well attended, were given once a month, an admission fee 
being charged for some charitable purpose. This club ended the 
season's pleasures by a "Trip to Shakertown" on the Kentucky 
river. The members of the Sunday School, and all those who de- 
sired, spent a day in the woods with a family dinner once a year. 
The church was like one great family . whose interests were 
in common. Its sympathy and fellowship attracted the at- 
tention of other churches. The Men's Brotherhood was organized, 
among other things, to perpetuate that feeling. It was said that 
the Christmas spirit was caught by this church a month before 
that day and happiness and good cheer prevailed in the anticipa- 
tion and preparation for that glad time. Generally at the home of 
Elder George Norton the young people would meet once a week 
and prepare gifts and ornaments for the tree and arranging a de- 
lightful programme, combining social features. 

Not one of the communicants of that church was a member of 
an euchre club, nor attended a public or promiscuous dance, nor 
Sunday evening receptions or dinners, nor the theatre or other 
places of amusement on Sunday or prayer-meeting night. Then 
its eighteen officers and their respective families were expected and 
generally were, in attendance at all of the stated meetings of the 
church. 

HOW A GEEAT REVIVAL WAS CONDUCTED. 

Told by General Smith as follows : 

Eev. B. Fay Mills was a great revivalist who had a method, and 
upon the invitation of Eev. W. S. Fulton when calling at my office, 
I met with the Ministerial Association of Lexington, in March, 
1895 in the parlor of the Y. M. C. A. The ministers 
present were : Revs. Fulton, McElroy, Bartlett, Spencer, Collis, 
Knapp, Southgate, Felix, and others. Eev. Southgate was chair- 
man. It appeared that Eev. B. Fay Mills, of Albany, N. Y., had 



Religious Life. 55 

been written to by Rev. McElroy several months before his work 
was begun, and a tabernacle meeting was arranged. 

Union daily prayer meetings were conducted for two weeks be- 
fore his arrival and one thousand dollars were subscribed and paid 
in before for expenses. The Executive Committee held con- 
ferences each week. Meetings were held in the Auditorium and 
the main hall of the building erected for an exposition. The service 
began April 5, 1895, and continued for three weeks with remark- 
able success. 

The rear of the Main Street Christian Church, now the ap- 
proach to the Central Depot, was selected for a tabernacle built of 
wood and the pulpit was at the side, in the rear of which was the 
select choir. There was a Grand Marshal, Assistant Marshals, and 
ushers. The seating capacity was about one thousand including the 
balcony. 

Twenty papers in the Bluegrass district had notices sent to 
them regarding the proposed meeting. Articles for the city papers, 
preparing the minds of the people for the great work, were writ- 
ten by ministers. General Smith procured the briefs of Rev. Mills' 
sermons from him and had them printed in the papers. Posters 
announcing the meetings were placed on "A" shaped boards. 
Streamers were swung on street cars, and ten thousand blotters 
with announcements and scriptural quotations were printed and 
given to school children and business men. It was most ingeniously 
and thoroughly advertised. 

One hundred ushers arranged by sections alphabetically were 
appointed with a grand chief usher sitting next to Mr. Mills, The 
choir consisted of more than two hundred of the picked voices of 
our city churches. The ministers sat on the front row of the plat- 
form. 

After the sermon and song services, cards were handed to those 
who arose for prayers, by ushers, for their names and addresses. 
These were collected and arranged by churches with which the sign- 
ers preferred to unite, and the pastor of that church would call on 
them. By this method nearly one thousand were gathered 
into the different churches, and many united with the 
Second Presbyterian Church. Some three thousand people would 
attend the services at 8 A. M. and 3 P. M., and Mr. Mills personally 
requested those living south of Main Street to attend the morning 
services, and those living north of Main Street to attend the Sun- 
clay afternoon services in order to accommodate all. A few days be- 
fore Mr. Mills left, prayer-meetings were held at residences at 9 A. 
M., at the churches at 10 A. M., and then regular services at 11 
A. M., at which time many of the leading mercantile firms closed 



56 Wilbur R. Smith. 

their places of business. Hundreds accompanied Mr. Mills to the 
train when he left for home. 

Gen. Smith was on a committee in January, 1905, to assist in 
arranging for Mai. Geo. A. Hilton, of California, in an evangelistic 
meeting. 

To the Maxwell Street Presbyterian Church he gave the Sun- 
day School a library in memory of his son, George Chafee Smith, 
once a scholar in that Sunday School. An engrossed resolution of 
thanks was presented to General Smith in testimony of apprecia- 
tion by the Sunday School. • 

RESOLUTIONS ADOPTED AT ANNUAL CONGREGATIONAL MEETING 
AND BANQUET, MARCH 26, 1913. 

RESOLVED: That the hearty thanks of the members and congrega- 
tion of the Second Presbyterian Church, U. S. A., of Lexington, Ky., be and 
are hereby expressed to Wilbur R. Smith, a deacon of said Church : who has 
collected and presented to the Church photographs of all the pastors who 
have served the Church since its organization in the year 1815 A. D. 

(2). That a copy of this resolution be spread upon the minutes of 
the meeting of the congregation held this 26th day of March, 1913, and 
that a copy of same be furnished to Deacon Smith. 

CLARENCE W. MATHEWS, 

Secretary. 



A Successful Educator. 57 



CHAPTER IV. 
A Successful Educator. 

He increases the earning power of his thousands of graduates over one 
million dollars a year in the aggregate. Students from over forty States 
and ten Foreign Countries attend his college. Senate of Kentucky Uni- 
versity confers an honor on his college. Chamber of Commerce en- 
dorses college. Curators of Kentucky University. Judge of men. Ad- 
dress by Member of Australian Parliament. Twenty-fifth Anniversary 
of College "Work Celebrated. Governor Bradley. Lieutenant-Governor 
Tillman, Superintendent of Public Instruction, and other Speakers. 
Congratulations from President McKinlej^ and other prominent men. 
Presentation of Silver Loving Cup. Tribute from a graduate at a 
banquet. Distinguished graduates. College work receives Medals and 
Diploma of Honor from two great Expositions. Change of name of 
Kentucky University to Transylvania University. Resolutions offered 
General Smith and presentation of pitcher. Transfer of title and 
interests of College to General Smith. Incorporating the Wilbur R. 
Smith Business College. 

GENERAL SMITH'S COLLEGE not only brought thousands 
of students and they nearlv one million dollars to Lexing- 
ton, but these former students of his are now realizing in 
the aggregate an amount computed at more than one million dollars 
in salary and income annually above that received by them prior to 
attending his college. One of his registers shows that his students 
matriculated from the following States and foreign countries : 

Kentucky 5,282 Louisiana 306 

Virginia 420 Missouri 189 

Florida 304 Ohio 278 

Mississippi 494 "West Virginia 478 

Arkansas 237 South Carolina 317 

Indiana 2S0 Alabama 536 

Tennessee 660 Texas 267 

North Carolina 386 Illinois 162 

Georgia 640 Sundry States 140 

Ten Foreign Countries 20 

Over 200 of his graduates are prominently located in Lexing- 
ton, now bankers, officials, merchants, professional men and i T i 
many enterprises. 

Two hundred are in banks, over two hundred are officials, and 
nearlv fifty are teaching in commercial colleges. This chapter alone 
will show a remarkably successful career, while other chapters 
bearing on other lines of work in which he has been a factor em- 
phasize the fact that he used every hour of time in some ennobling 
work. 



58 



Wilbur R. Smith. 





S.'A'_. Ccr. Main ft ' !-•?«!■ 5*;., p^n. Cf.;™! _,._3 

Melcdeon Hall Carty Building 

The Buildings Where Gen. Smith's College was located for 35 Years 




W. SMITH AND W. R. SMITH AND FACULTY WITH 100 STUDENTS 
WHO BEGAN AT THEIR COLLEGE IN ONE MONTH. 



A Successful Educator. 59 

The Senate of old Kentucky University directed its Secretary, 
Prof. James G-. White, on May 16, 1878, to request Prof. Smith to 
appoint a Valedictorian from his college to represent the college at 
its annual commencement exercises, June 13, 1878. On Mr. Wil- 
liam Pickett was conferred the honor of delivering the address, 
which he did with ability. 

On November 11, 1884, the Chamber of Commerce of Lexing- 
ton endorsed this college as the leading Business College in Ken- 
tucky, by resolution offered by Prof. George W. Eanck, the histor- 
ian. 

Among the Curators and Executive Committee of old Ken- 
tucky University with whom he was associated officially for many 
years and who knew his fidelity and honorable recognition in the 
work in which he was engaged were : 

Gov. R. M. Bishop, Cincinnati, O. P. P. Parish, Midway, Ky. 

Hon. Zachariah F. Smith, Joseph Woolfolk, Lexington, Ky. 

Louisville, Ky. John B. Wallace, Lexington, Ky. 

Gen. W. T. Withers, Lexington. Ky. Jas. M. Graves, Versailles, Ky. 

Gen. D. S. Goodloe. Lexington, Ky. Thomas Munnell, Mt. Sterling, Ky. 

A. M. Barnes, Lexington, Ky. John L. Cassell, Harrodsburg, Ky. 

Wm. L. Williams, Hustonville, Ky. Jas. L. Neal, Harrodsburg, Ky. 

Hon. Horace Miller, Paris, Ky. John Allen, Lexington, Ky. 

Rev. John S. Sweenj', Paris, Ky. Dr. Jas. Stockdell, Atlanta, Ga. 

Wm. Mitchell, Mt. Sterling, Ky. W. W. Estill, Lexington, Ky. 

Robert McMichael, Lexington, Ky. Rev. C. P. Williamson, Atlanta, Ga. 

Hon. John T. Hinton, Paris, Ky. Judge John S. Phelps, Lexington, Ky. 

Albert Allen, Lexington, Ky. Rev. E. L. Powell, Louisville, Ky. 

Judge J. R. Morton, Lexington, Ky. Rev. Jas. B. Jones, Lexington, Ky. 

Chief Justice Jas. D. Hazelrigg, Hon. John C. May, Lexington, Ky. 

Hon. John D. Harris, Richmond, Ky. Rev. Mark Collis, Lexington. Ky. 

Dr. Benj. L. Coleman. Lexington, Ky. Lion. Henry S. Hale, Frankfort, Ky. 

Judge Geo. Nelson, Winchester, Ky. W. T. Withers, Lexington, Ky. 

John T. Vance, Lexington, Ky. Judge Matt. Walton, Lexington, Ky. 

Wm. S. Dickinson, Cincinnati. O. Rev. I. J. Spencer, Lexington, Ky. 

Wm. H. Graham, Lexington, Ky. Hon. C. W. Bell, Harrodsburg, Ky. 

Prof. J. W. Porter, Lexington, Ky. C. C. Patterson, Los Angeles, Cal. 

Hon. Solomon Vanmeter, L. G. Cox, Lexington, Ky. 

Lexington, Ky. 

In 1876 the catalogue of Kentucky University referred to the 
heads of service; Governor E. M. Bishop, of Cincinnati, Ohio, was 
Chairman of the Board of Curators; Gen. D. S. Goodloe, Treas- 
urer, and Dr. A. M. Barnes, Secretary. 

The Senate of the University consisted of 

J. B. Bowman. Eegent; 

H. H. White, LL. D., Presiding Officer of the A. & M. College. 

Eobert Graham, Presiding Officer of College of the Bible; 

Madison C. Johnson, LL. D., Presiding Officer, College of Law ; 

Dr. H. M. Skillman, Dean of Medical Department; 

Wilbur E. Smith, Presiding Officer Commercial Department. 



60 Wilbur R. Smith. 

By virtue of the various positions General Smith has held. 
and coming in contact with men, and with thousands of young 
people, he is a splendid judge of human nature and the value 
of a man. Hundreds of bankers and. officials have relied 
upon his judgment in selecting men for prominent and confidential 
positions and in his affairs with men he could read a man's con- 
versation or writing between the lines most accurately. The. 
General used to say : "You can fool me in a horse or any other live 
stock, but not often in a person." A thoroughbred, he always said, 
though defeated once, would be ready for another race. 

Among the large number of prominent people who have vis- 
ited Prof. Smith's College and addressed his students was Hon. 
Philipi Santo, for twenty years a member of the South Australian 
Parliament. He was on a tour of America and was entertained 
by Prof. Smith. The Lexington Daily Press on referring to his 
visit to the college had a brief report of his speech, which was in 
part as follows: 

Gentlemen: — Success in every undertaking depends upon your having 
a firm foundation upon which to build, and I regard a thorough knowledge 
in the way in which business is being done in all parts of the world as an 
important part of the training of mercantile men. I have arrived at the 
conclusion that strict honesty and integrity in all its transactions form the 
best and surest guarantee of success. 

Mercantile transactions to a large extent are the results of confidence. 
Merchants desirous of purchasing goods in foreign markets must of neces- 
sity place their interests in the hands of others. You will, therefore, see 
how necessary it is that a merchant should be correct and above suspicion. 
The trading community in all countries is very sensitive on this point. The 
slightest departure from that which is right is sure to have the effect of 
destroying that confidence, and when once destroyed can never be restored. 
The greatest success in mercantile pursuits has been attained by men of 
undoubted integrity. 1 have known men to allow themselves to do what 
some men would regard as smart, and in that way succeed for awhile; but 
generally speaking such a course was an utter failure. I, therefore, strongly 
recommend to you that care and attention in all your business transactions 
be paid to the strict business principles of honesty, not only in large trans- 
actions, but also in the most trivial matter. 

Gentlemen, I not only wish you all a successful life, but the success 
to be won without ihe sacrifice of integrity and honor. 



A Successful Educator. 



61 




CURATORS OF KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY 

(On steps of University) 



First Row, reading from left to right — President Bnrris A. Jenkins; Jas. 
M. Graves, Versailles, Ky. ; Rev. E. L. Powell, Louisville, Ky. ; Hon. 
Z. T. Smith, Louisville, Ky. ; Dean Evans, of K. U. Medical College; 
Hon. C. W. Bell, Frankfort, Ky.; Prof. J. W. Porter, Lexington Ky. ; 
Judge John S. Phelps, Lexington, Ky. 

Second Row, from left to right — L. G. Cox, Lexington, Ky.; C. C. Patter- 
son, Los Angeles, Cal.; Rev. I. J. Spencer, Lexington, Ky. ; John C. 
May, Lexington, Ky.; Judge G. B. Nelson, Winchester, Ky.; Rev. Mark 
Collis, Lexington, Ky. ; P. P. Parrish, Midway, Ky. 

Third Row from left to right — W. T. Withers, Lexington, Ky. ; Hon. Hor- 
ace Miller, Paris, Ky.; Rev. John S. Sweeny, Paris, Ky.; John T. Vance 
Lexington, Ky. ; W. Dickinson, Cincinnati, Ohio; Judge Matt. Walton, 
Lexington, Ky. ; Hon. S. VanMeter, Lexington, Ky. ; Dr. B. L. Cole- 
man, Lexington, Ky. 

His college work and text-book were awarded medals and 
Diplomas of Honor from two great Expositions. 




"*■ ' * v ' *^**¥^ , »ai^a&i2te*!dfto«sSi*i 



MINIATURE COPY OF DIPLOMA OF HONOR, WORLD'S EXPOSITION, 

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA. 

(Original size being 23% inches long by 17 inches wide) 
The Elements upon which the Awards were based are as Follows: 

Originality, Invention, Discovery, Utility, Quality, Skill, Workmanship, 
Fitness for the Purpose Intended, Economy, and Adaptabilitv to the Pub- 
lic Wants. 

(From the Times-Democrat, New Orleans, La., 
June 7, 1885) 

New Laurels for Kentucky University — 'High- 
est Award for work on Business Education at 
the World's Exposition has been conferred on 
Professors Ephraim W. Smith and Wilbur R. 
Smith, officers of the Commercial College of Ken- 
tucky University, Lexington, Ky. The Award at 
the World's Exposition is the highest commen- 
dation of which we have any conception. 

A million people who have been in attendance 
have been attracted by the grandeur and won- 
derful magnitude of the enterprise and the mag- 
nificent display of everything that mind, genius 
and nature or art could produce. It is then with 
no small degree of complacency that the Pro- 
fessors Smith, father and son, can wear the lau- 
rels for which they have labored and so proudly 

WOP, 

This high honor which has been so justly con- 
ferred upon the Commercial College of Kentucky 
University at the World's Exposition is the cap- 
stone of many encomiums which have been hith- 
erto so lavishly bestowed on the ^masterly ef- 
forts of its officers, who will now be recognized 
throughout the world as the highest authority 
on matters pertaining to Business Education. 




GOLD MEDAL AWARD 

By AVorld's Industrial and Cotton Centennial Exposition, New Orleans, 

Louisiana, 1884-85. 

(24 K. Gold — the very finest quality — two inches in diameter and 53 

pwt. in weight. 

The World's Industrial and Cotton Centennial Exposition, New Or- 
leans, La., 1884-85, was incorporated by an act of the United States Con- 
gress, officially represented by foreign countries, awarded to E. W. and 
W. R. Smith the above medal for system of Bookkeeping and General 
Business Education. The Certificates of Award (Diploma of Honor) was 
signed and sealed by Officers of the World's Exposition. 




^JlacaUovi^V.^^ot«,VioY^<i 5 -Ex]io^iiiQ^ > H, O.io» v J88¥-'S-~ 



EDUCATIONAL JURORS, WORLD'S INDUSTRIAL AND COTTON 
CENTENNIAL EXPOSITION, NEW ORLEANS, LA., 1884-85. 

Chairman, Gov. John W. Hoyt, Wyoming. 

Vice Chairman, Hon. J. George H origins, LL. D., Deputy Minister of Edu- 
cation of Canada. 
Secretary, Prof. Lyndon A. Smith, Bureau of Education, Washington, D. C. 
Rev. Walter Hillman, A. M., LL. D., Principal Female Institute, Mississippi. 
Bro. Mamelian, of the Christian Brothers School, Memphis, Tenn. 
Hon. Win. (). Rodgers, ex-Superintendent Public Instruction of Louisiana. 
Monsieur M. B. Buisson, Commissioner of Education from Prance. 
Hon. Ichizo Hattori, Commissioner of Education from Japan. 

NOTE— This distinguished Jury awarded E. W. and W. R. Smith Diploma of 
Honor and Medal. 




FACULTY OF THE FOUR COLLEGES OF KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY 

(1893) 

From left to right, first row — Elder John Grubbs; President Robert Graham, 
College of the Bible; President Chas. Louis Loos, Kentucky University; 
Prof. E. W. Smith, Principal of Commercial College of Kentucky Uni- 
versity; Judge J. D. Hunt, Law Department; Rev. J. W. McGarvey. 
College of the Bible. 



From left to right, second row, standing — Judge D. G. Falconer, Law Depart- 
ment; Prof. Fairhurst, Prof. Kemper, and Prof. A. R. Milligan. Depart- 
ment of Liberal Arts; Gen. W. R. Smith, President Commercial Depart- 
ment; John T. Shelby, Law Department. 





i i 



DIPLOMA OP 'HONOR, AVOKLD'S COLUMBIAN PXPOSITION 

(Miniature Copy of Diploma of Honor — size 18 by 2 4 inches) 
The illustration above gives a correct idea of the general design of 
the diploma awarded to exhibitors whose displays were deemed worthy of 
recognition by the Committee of Awards of ihe World's Columbian Expo- 
sition. The central idea of the design is that of crowning the new world 
with the laurel wreath. The lower portion shows a barge of ancient pat- 
tern with shields of the different countries at its side, propelled by repre- 
sentatives of various nations, with Columbus at the helm. 

Under the arch at the tip is a view of the World's Columbian Ex- 
position from Lake Michigan. The arts and sciences are symbolized bj' 
the single figures at the extreme upper corners, and at the base of the arch 
are children of the aborigines receiving instruction, the figure imparting 
same, reclining against a kneeling American bison. The bearer of the 
laurel reaches gracefully toward the object of her attention at the left. 
The names of the countries of the old and new world exhibiting at the Fair 
are inscribed on scrolls at the right and left of center space, which is re- 
served for lettering by the judges of award. 





MEDAL AWARDED AT THE WORLDS COLUMBIAN EXPOSITION. 

CHICAGO, ILL., 1893, (Bronze) 



68 Wilbur R. Smith. 

GENERAL SMITH EULOGIZED AT AN ANNUAL BANQUET AT OLD 
KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY BY DISTINGUISHED GRADUATE. 

The annual Alumni dinner of Kentucky University was attended by a 
large number, including the presiding officers of the various Colleges, Fac- 
ulties, Board of Curators and Executive Committee. It was a fitting close 
of work with charming festivities at the University, including the open ses- 
sions of the various Literary societies and Commencement exercises with 
oratory, music, etc. The Junior Promenade at President Jenkins' hand- 
some home the evening before was especially enjoyed by hundreds of 
young ladies and gentlemen of the student body of the University. 

The Alumni of Kentucky University has among its members an ex- 
Chief Justice of Kentucky, Governors, Congressmen, Bankers, Merchants, 
Officials, and men of the Professions, etc. The graduates of the Commer- 
cial College of Kentucky University are entitled to membership. Rev. 
Hugh McLellan, formerly of Australia, acted as toastmaster and presided 
with dignity and showed a delightful tact and graciousness in introducing 
the speakers between each course. Space will not permit other than the 
address of Mr. Matt S. Walton, a graduate and representative of the Com- 
mercial College of Kentucky University. 

Mr. Walton afterward graduated from Yale University and was Dean 
of the Transylvania University Law School. His subject was, "The Com- 
mercial Awakening of the South." Mr. Walton said in part in referring 
to General Smith : 

"Kentucky University recognized the predominance of the commercial 
idea when she established this branch and secured as its head a young man. 
The trust was worthily bestowed upon Gen. Wilbur R. Smith, whose name 
is a synonym of success. Gen. Smith, being a Northerner by birth and a 
Southerner by choice, combines financial tact with Southern affability of 
temperament that makes him pre-eminently suited for his position. He is 
a model for any young man going into business. During the twenty-seven 
years of his Presidency ten thousand young people have attended his col- 
lege, the greatest number of any college m the South. His training fitted 
them for careful and correct thinking, and those having native talent and 
ability are young captains of industry. He has trained to fill responsible 
positions in accounting and the interpretation of accounts; in other words, 
the philosophy of bookkeeping and to gauge the earning capacity of busi- 
ness. His graduates are worthily entitled to the degree of Bachelor of Com- 
merce. Millions of dollars are managed by their commercial training. They 
are the motive power of progress in this city, in Kentucky, in the South. 
They will be a living monument to the worth of General Smith as long as 
life and reason exist." 




The celebration of the Twenty-fifth Anniversary of General 
Smith's Presidency of the Commercial College of Kentucky Uni- 
versity was a notable occasion. The following are extracts from 
a local paper : 

(From The Leader, June 5th and 9th, 1901). 
General Wilbur R. Smith, President of the Commercial College of 
Kentucky University, was honored Tuesday evening in a unique and im- 
pressive manner. It was the occasion of the celebration of the close of 
the first quarter of a century of that institution under his able manage- 
ment. A large audience of educators and those interested in educational 
work, gathered in Morrison Chapel of Kentucky University to witness the 
rendering of the program which was one of the strongest ever rendered 
in the historical old school on a similar occasion. 

Tho Chapel was tastefully decorated and Saxton's orchestra discoursed 
sweet music as the guests were assembling, four college young men in 
evening dress, acting as ushers. 

At S:15 the speakers of the evening and those who were to occupy 
seats of honor on the platform, marched into the chapel to the strains of 
the orchestra, and -amid the deafening applause of the audience. Presi- 
dent A. R. Milligan, of Kentucky Universtiy; Superintendent of Public 
Instruction of the State, H. V. McChesney; Lieutenant-Governor J. H. Till- 
man, of South Carolina; ex-Governor W. O. Bradley, and Rev. Mark Collis, 
were the speakers of the evening, and each received salvos of applause 
as they entered the chapel on the march to the platform. 

The program was a remarkable one. It was a genuine testimonial 
to the worth of an able, aggressive, patriotic and earnest man, whose en- 
ergies have been devoted to the upbuilding of the college with which he 
has been identified for twenty-five years, and for whose benefit he has 
expended both money and unremitting toil. 

The platform was filled with distinguished citizens, including, besides 
Gen. Smith, President Milligan, of Kentucky Unversity; Mayor Duncan 
Mr. James A. Curry, President Y. M. C. A.; State Senator Allen, Repre- 
sentative Van Meter, Rev. Kirkwood of Second Presbyterian Church; Rev 
Pillsbury, of the Centenary Methodist Episcopal Church; Rev. George Joplin 
Dean Lee, of Christ Church Cathedral; Rev. Mark Collis, of Broadway 
Christian Church; Rev. I. J. Spencer, of Central Christian Church; Rev 
J. S. Shouse, Presidents J. W. McGarvey and C. L. Loos; Professors Grubbs 
Deweese, Fairhurst, Freeman, Zembrod and Jefferson; President Hager- 
man, of Hamilton College, and Maj. McClellan, of Sayre Institute; Hon 
Dwight Harrison, Professors W. W. Smith, W. K. Rout and many graduates 
Splendid tributes of Gen. Smith's work for twent3 r -five years as a teacher 
and citizen were given in addresses by Gov. W. O. Bradley, Lieutenant- 
Governor Tillman, of South Carolina, a graduate; State Superintendent of 
Public Instruction McChesney, and Rev. Mark Collis. The exercises closed 
by Mr. Brock, of the First National Bank, presenting General Smith with 
a loving cup from his students and graduates, followed by hearty con- 
gratulations from the vast audience. 

The evening exercises closed with an address by General Smith. 




'iVffi* SPEAKERS ON ($£*!, WlLBUR R.&MSTH'S 25TH. ANNIVERSARY EXERCISES AS r -W 
PRESIDENT OF THE COMMERCIAL COLLEGE OF KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY. *** Tf 



The following program was given: 
Overture — Le Chevalier — Bulton A. Herman 

Chairman 
Alexander R. Milligan, A. M. 

Acting President of the University 

Invocation 

Rev. J. W. McGarvey, LL. D. 

President of the College of the -Bible 

Music — Dear old Southern Home 

Alumnus Address 

Hon. J. H. Tillman, 'ST 

Lieutenant-Governor cf South Carolina 

Music — Dixie 

Address 
Hon. H. V. McChesney 
State Superintendent of Public Instruction 
Music — The Blue and the Cray 

Address 

Rev. Mark Collis 

Curator of Kentucky University 



Music — America 



Address 

Hon. William O. Bradley 

Former Governor of Kentucky 



Music — Star Spangled Banner 



Address 
General Wilbur R. Smith 



Benediction 
Rev. Robert Ogilvie Kirkwood 
Pastor Second Presbyterian Church 
Saxton's Orchestra 



June 4, 1901 



A Successful Educator. 71 

Letters of congratulation were received by General Smith from Presi- 
dent McKinley, Chief Justice Fuller and Associate Justices, Members of 
the Cabinet, Mrs. Jefferson Davis, Commissioner of Education W. T. Harris. 
Generals Miles, Wilson, Buffing-ton, Bates and Luddington; also from ten 
Governors, nine United States Senators, four ex-Governors, three Bishops 
Presidents of twenty renowned Universities, Presidents of fifteen prominent 
Business Colleges, and from many others, including hundreds of graduates 
from all over the United States. 

The entire program was one long line of mingled wit and earnestness, 
crowned by the splendid address of Gov. W. O. Bradley. Rarely has a Lex- 
ington audience had the pleasure of listening to such another. 

PRESIDENT MILL! GAIN'S INTRODUCTION 

President A. R. Milligan, of Kentucky University, presided at the ex- 
ercises. B}' way of introduction, after the invocation by President J. W. 
McGarvey, of the College of the Bible, he said: 

"In the year 1876 there came into Kentucky, into the Commercial 
College of Kentucky University, a father and a son. That institution had, 
for some years, struggled in an uncertain and unhappj^ manner. The 
time was unpromising for a successful school. The conditions throughout 
the country were unpropitious. The father and son, Messrs. E. W. and W. R. 
Smith, achieved an immediate success. The father a few years ago passed 
to his reward. The son sctll lives and prospers. He is almost the institu- 
tion. We are here to celebrate a long career. We are here also to honor 
one who has helped to make Lexington what she is. 

"I have the honor to introduce the Hon. J. H. Tillman, Lieutenant 
Governor of South Carolina, who was graduated from the institution in 1887." 

LIEUTENANT-GOVERNOR TILLMAN'S ADDRESS 

Mr. Tillman's, speech was one that pleased every one present, com- 
bining both graceful wit and practical advice. His happy turning of several 
expressions created much applause. He said in substance: 

"I am somewhat handicapped in attempting an address. It is usual 
to have fcr such an occasion a set speech. In my State we have lately 
had too much trouble to meditate on education. But coming from the land 
of Calhoun, coming from the land of secession, I am grateful to be with 
you and to address the Commercial Department of Kentucky University. 

"The old University has given this country some of its brightest 
lights, men dear to the South. When I say the South I do not speak a 
sectional sentiment, for this is a reunited country as was shown by our war 
with Spain. Our boys showed that the young men of the South were ready 
to fight for the nation. 

"The great movement of today is the commercial movement. I want 
to see the day when we shall be Queen of the Commercial World. It rests 
upon the young men and the young women of the councry to maintain its 
greatness, for we are already great. 

"In youth, when boys are in doubt as to what line to follow, I can 
say that you make no mistake in being thorough in business. And I am 
sure you make no mistake in completing your education at this institu- 
tion. I am familiar with all, I can say this is the finest commercial in- 
stitution in the United States, if not in the world. 

"Though advce is cheap and difficult to take, I can say this to you: 
Devote your ventures to the business world, and, for heaven's sake, stay 



72 Wilbur R. Smith. 

out of politics. If you go into politics, I suggest that you change your 
system of bookkeeping and rub out the profit side. 

"Go out into the business world and fght the battles of life. Pursue 
whatever course you may, only two words write your epitaph — 'success' 
or 'failure.' " 



As the strains of "Dixie died away, the Hon. H. V. McChesney, State- 
Superintendent of Public Schools, arose to speak. He said in part: 

HON. H. V. McCHESNEY'S ADDRESS 

I appreciate in a very high degree the kind invitation extended to 
me to be present on this occasion. T was preparing copy for the State 
General Examination questions that will cause still more trouble in the 
State in about two weeks, and when I came over I asked General Smith 
if there was not some way to have me excused. 

I had heard from General Smith that I was expected to make a very 
few remarks and I shall make them. It is a little too much to ask a 
school man to speak in the presence of Governors and Presidents of Univer- 
sities, and Principals of Normal Departments, and Principals of the Busi- 
ness Department of this University. 

I am delighted to be here on this anniversary of Gen. Smith's taking 
charge of this school. Gen. Smith looks younger than I do. Twenty-five 
years ago, I was wearing knee pants and carrying a milk bottle over the 
hills of Crittenden county, but he was here teaching in his institution, which 
goes to show that a man who daily teaches a class of young men with 
bright minds, and 3^oung ladies with beautiful faces, has discovered that 
which old Ponce de Leon could never find in this world — the fountain of youth. 
I congratulate him that he grows younger as he grows older, and that 
his honors increase as his labors. 

I am perfectly willing to attend airy gathering that affords a splendid 
piece of landscape, or whatever you want to call it, as this multitude does 
this evening. I am glad to be here, and as the representative of the 
State Department of education, I want to say that if an opportunity be 
presented to me as the head of the Public School system of the State to 
co-operate in the work in the A. and M. College, that of the Kentucky 
University, or of its business department, or any other institution of this 
character, I shall be glad to bring the power of the Commonwealth to 
your assistance, as far as it is in my hands. I want to hold out the hand 
of the State Department, feeble though it may be, because the Legislature 
has never done its duty by this Department; I say I want to hold out its 
hand to the Kentucky University, this Business Department and to you, 
General Smith; we wish you all success. God bless you and your work. 
In return I want to ask you, and I am here to urge upon this University, 
and upon those who constitute its business department, and this faculty, 
your co-operation in some things we want to try to do for the public 
schools. 

The trouble is that we have never gone down into our pockets and 
said that our children are entitled to as good things as any in the world. 
I want the active co-operation of this institution and other institutions to 
help us to increase our public schools from 5 months to 6. 7 or 8, if possible; 
and it cannot be done unless the people want it. 

I want to say that I have an idea that Prof. Smith, in the 25 years 
he has been teaching in this school, has seen more than 10,000 young men 
pass under his training; and I want to say that I do not believe you will 



A Successful Educator. 73 

find one of them begging his bread today. I understand it has been the 
rule of the young men that have gone from this school that they have 
gone out and won life's battles, and made a living, and it is no mean thing 
to make a living in this world. T sometimes say to the boys and girls 
when I talk to them: Make your education practical, that you may make 
a living when you have it to do. T wish we could get into the public 
schools a little more of the spirit of the Business College. 

I wish we could put into the boys who go out of the public schools 
more of the determination to make a living. I know that the students 
you send out know that business is not all there is in life; that there is 
something infinitely nobler, higher and better and purer than that, but 
this determination to make a living is not to be despised in these boys 
and girls; it is essential, and I honor them, for it; and my wish is that 
some of this business teaching may be put into the public schools of our 
loved Kentucky; and when we get this, I think — I know, I am sure that 
we will have results; it is this patient determination that wins, and I know 
that the students of this business department have received from you much 
of that spirit; I know that after having gone through your courses and 
gone out from your teaching that they have gotten from you many of 
those qualities which win in life, and whether they go into the business 
world or to teach in other schools your iniluence will be extended and felt 
all over this land. I want to congratulate Gen. Smith that his students 
are Presidents of colleges elsewhere. 

May the next twenty-five years set as lightly on your shoulders as 
the last twenty-five; may the next twenty-five years bring another 10,000 
or 15,000 young men and women under the sway of your splendid system 
of business teaching you have in this college; may the old University and 
its honored President and splendid Faculty thrive; may they all flourish 
and prosper, is the wish of your humble servant, and at any time you 
think the S'tate Department can assist you, call us by telephone, or write 
us a postal and we are yours to control. ( Applause). 

REV. MARK COLLIS' ADDRESS 

"I am very happy to be here on this occasion, and express my appre- 
ciation of the work done by Prof. Smith of the Commercial College. I 
was delighted with the remarks made by Mr. McChesney. A commercial 
education is necessary for every man, whether he is a preacher, a lawyer, 
a doctor, or what we ordinarily call a business man. It helps him in 
many ways; it makes him a well rounded man. Many a preacher I 
have known failed simply because he knew nothing of business. Prof. 
Smith has done a good work hi our midst, and I rejoice because he has 
done something more than to make business men. We want, my friends, 
to be something more than business men. As I look around and see the 
graduates of Prof. Smith here in our city occupying such honorable posi- 
tions, giving tone to this community in which I live, and on the other 
distinguished graduates who have gone from the Commercial College of 
Kentuckj r University, I realize that Prof. Smith is doing something more 
than making grocers, dry goods merchants and bookkeepers; when I look 
upon these graduates, I am compelled to say that he is making men. I 
am called upon tonight to speak as a Curator of the Kentucky University. 
I am happy for these twenty-five years in which this department of Ken- 
tucky University has been under the control of Prof. Smith, I heartily thank 
Prof. Smith for this work, and I rejoice to say that during these twenty-five 
years Wilbur Smith has been loyal to Kentucky University, that he has in 
every way in his power aided it in its duties, its interests, and that at the 



74 Wilbur R. Smith. 

same time he has recognized the aid that Kentucky University has given to 
the institution of which he is the head. 

"Some how, I look upon this, Professor, as a kind ol a twenty-fifth 
anniversary of your marriage to Kentucky University; it is a happy occa- 
sion to us; it is the silver wedding, if you please; and we extend to you 
tonight, Professor, our best wishes. We are glad, sir, that your record 
in the past has been pure and bright, like silver, and we hope that it will 
continue of the- same character in the future; and I trust that we shall all 
live to see the golden anniversary of this institution under your charge in 
connection with Kentucky University.'' 

GOVERNOR W. O. BRADLEY'S ADDRESS 

Tn introducing ex-Governor Bradley, President Milligan introduced a 
man who was loudly applauded and not without cause. His speech was a 
model of quiet humor, deepening into earnest thought. He said: 

"On this, the twenty-fifth anniversary of the presidency of him whom 
we have assembled to honor, it is my especial pleasure and privilege to 
say from personal and official contact and experience, that he is in every 
way a loyal, steadfast and true man. For a quarter of a century he has 
continually passed in review before this splendid people and the number and 
character of those who grace this occasion is the most exalted tribute to 
his work. During that time he has brought into your midst thousands of 
young men and women who have contributed more than a million dollars 
to the material wealth of your city. During that period he has sent into 
thirty-five States of the Union and ten foreign countries a host of young 
men who have earned not money alone, but honor and fame as well. He 
has not only added to your wealth but to your citizenship. Many a poor 
but ambitious boy or girl has been the recipient of his kindness and gen- 
erosity. The good that he has done will not be 'interred with his bones,' 
but will blossom into sweet fragrance long after he has been gathered to 
the harvest home of eternity. 

"He came into your midst a modest and unassuming young man 
with no wealth save a brave heart, active mind, willing hands and courage 
born of a laudable ambition. You took him in your strong arms and sus- 
tained him, until to-night he stands in the forefront of your citizens, pos- 
sessed of all the world's goods necessary to insure independence, and a 
consciousness of duty well performed which brings him contentment and 
happiness. 

"From the winter of 1895 to the winter of 1899, it was my good fortune 
to know much of him as a man and his constant labors in behalf of 
Lexington. Among the many efforts of this character, I particularly recall 
his action in 1898. When our heroes had been murdered by Spanish malice 
and perfidity and the same cruel power had well nigh crushed the suffering 
people of Cuba; when the Nation arose as one man to relieve the down- 
trodden and defend the honor of the flag borne by the hands of a host of 
blended blue and gray, he was among the very first, if not the very first, 
of your patriotic citizens to conceive the thought of mobilizing Kentucky's 
troops in this city without cost to the government. Then it was that the 
generous, throbbing heart of patriotic Lexington was made manifest to all. 
Through him and others no less worthily associated with him, this became 
a tented city, and the heroic music of fife and drum, the steady tramp of 
armed men — the power of Kentucky's manhood — intensified the patriotic ar- 
dor of your people, who won for themselves the proud and envious distinc- 
tion of being the first and only city of the Republic to open its generous 
gates to the soldiers of the Nation. Patriotism, like virtue, always has its 



A Successful Educator. 75 

reward. The result of that action was the coming- of many thousands of 
brave soldiers, fleeing from an infected camp, into your midst, thereby con- 
tributing hundreds of thousands of dollars to the city — and through their 
sickness and suffering rendering immortal the tender ministrations of your 
refined and Christian women. From that time to this, new life has been 
infused into Lexington, and her growth and progress have gone steadily 
forward until now, as a rare pearl set in an emerald of waving grass and 
grain, she is recognized as the most beautiful inland city in America. 

"To President Smith, as much or more than any living man, you owe 
a debt of gratitude and I know you will join me when I propose to him 
and his the homely but heartfelt toast of Rip Van "Winkle, 'May you live 
long and prosper.' 

"President Smith is not only a true man, but a thorough man of 
affairs. Alive to every phase of commercial activity, replete with tireless 
energy, imbued with love and pride for his adopted city, your faithful and 
steadfast friend, it follows that by this demonstration you honor yourselves 
as he has honored himself in serving you. 

"The trite adage, 'An honest man is the noblest work of God.' is gen- 
erally accepted as true. In my judgment the idea attempted to be con- 
veyed may be more forcibly expressed. Honesty is indeed a noble attribute, 
but that word is not sufficiently comprehensive. It would be more nearly 
covered to say that a 'true man is the noblest work of God.' For, if true, 
he cannot be dishonest or deficient in any respect. Such a man is not only 
honest, but true to his Maker, true to his country, true to all mankind, 
true to himself. 

"Of all the despicable creatures that infest the earth, the hypocrite, 
the ingrate and the envious are the most despicable. 

"It is a source of profound congratulation that envy is without wings. 
It cannot fly. The purity of the upper air is as fatal to its existence as 
the most deadly poison is to the human system. Envy creeps and crawls, 
like the serpent, not infrequently leaving upon the fairest name the imprint 
of its polluted trail. 

"The true man is a stranger to these base instincts, except as he may 
be the victim of others. He is as far above them as the stars are above 
the sea. He is without fear, for he is void of offense. He walks in the 
highway of duty and honor, at all times secure in the purity of his purpose 
and the sincerity of his heart. He does not furtively glance over his shoulder 
to ascertain whether the steps he hears from the rear are those of an 
officer in pursuit. He is always for the right. Pie stands for principle and 
would be broken upon the wheel rather than be guilty of a dishonorable act. 
His life as calm as untroubled waters, his soul lofty as snow-capped peaks, 
his step light and free as the circumambienc air, and from his exalted 
position, he looks down with placid contempt upon those who masquerade 
as men. 

"The true man's heart goes out in sympathy to the sorrowing and 
the oppressed. At the risk of life he would break the chains of the captive, 
relieve the suffering, protect the weak and, above all, defend the honor 
of a woman. He takes positive position on every public question and is 
never ashamed or afraid to express his convictions. The night is never so 
dark, the way never so dangerous, the stream never too deep, the storm 
never so terrible, that he will not hasten to the rescue of a friend. He 
loves not himself alone but he loves his country, his locality, his people and 
his friends. Thir prosperity is his delight, hence he needs not a request to 
aid them — the opportunity is sufficient. 

"To that famous institution you have ever been faithful and generous. 



76 Wilbur R. Smith, 

In its times of travail and adversity Lexington has given liberally to uphold 
and sustain it; and in return it has contributed more than all other agencies 
combined to the name and fame of your city. And now while we rest within 
its venerable precincts, surrounded by its more ihan a century of wonderful 
achievements may we, or rather should we not indulge in the hope that its 
future may be more glorious than its past. 

"Instinctively we feel the presence of Holly.Bascomb and Bowman; 
of Richardson, Dudley and Bush; of Clay, Davis, Breckinridge, Barry and 
Bledsoe; of Robertson.. Mays, Nicholas and Johnson. These are indeed 
among the few immortal names that were not born to die. From its sacred 
walls have gone forth orators who have swayed the multitudes and Senate; 
judges who have exalted and dignified the bench; physicians and surgeons 
who have attracted world-wide admiration; lawyers who have elevated the 
profession and gilded it with the brightest of superb intellectuality; profes- 
sors unsurpassed by those of no other institution of the land; men of busi- 
ness affairs whose substantial ability and keen foresight have built up and 
beautified many sections and localities, and ministers whose deathless elo- 
quence and fervid zeal have pointed the way to Glory and to God. 

"On this occasion I know you will pardon a personal allusion. 

"There is nothing more beautiful as we journey along the pathway 1 
of life, amidst its flowers or thorns, than the loyalty and devotion of a friend. 
To him I am bound by hooks of steel, Ready and safe in counsel, true 
and steadfast in friendship I would be unjust to him and false to myself 
should I fail to bear individual testimony to his fidelity, tenderness, courage 
and devotion. Our acquaintance extends over a number of years, during 
which there have been many vicissitudes. But amidst them all I have 
never known him to be false or wanting and never failed to find him near 
when his services were in demand. It mattered not whether those vicis- 
situdes were marked by sunshine or storm, victory or defeat, joy or sorrow, 
he always proved the same true, generous, sympathizing friend. He has in- 
deed a sunny disposition for he is never without words of encouragement. 
To him there is no cloud so dark that it has not a tinge of light, no grief for 
which there is not a consolation. I trust, as I know you do, that many more 
years of useful, active life may be his, during which time he may continue in 
the laudable work of developing Kentucky University, upon which its worthy 
President and conscientious and learned professors are now shedding so much 
lustre and distinction. 

But its future shall surpass its past, for others shall arise 'whose deeds 
shall be mightier than those engraven on the scroll' of the departed century 
Looking down the vista of the future, with prophetic vision, we behold it 
immeasurably enlarged and improved; we see other buildings far more im- 
posing and numerous than those which now adorn its grounds; we behold 
every department crowded with anxious and thoughtful students, taiight by 
the most learned professors of the land, we see thousands drinking of its in- 
exhaustible fountains of knowledge and then going forth into the great pul- 
sating world of thought and action, to carve their names higher and deeper 
on the pillars of fame than those who have preceded them. 

"And may that time be hastened, I know, is the heartfelt wish and 
prayer of all who are here tonight." 



executive: mansion. 

WASHINGTON 



April 23, 1901. 



My dear Sir: 

I have been much gratified "by the cordial in- 
vitation extended to me by the graduates of the Com- 
mercial College of Kentucky University to be present 

fuvtftfc' 
at the exercises arranged for June f i - rot in honor of 

your twenty-fifth anniversary as President of the 

College. 

It is a matter of much regret that absence in the 
west on the date named will preclude me from sending 
an acceptance. 

Please accept my congratulations, and believe me, 
Very sincerely yours, 




^^> 



Gen. Wilbur R. Smith, 
Lexington, Kentucky* 




FACSIMILE OF LETTER OF CONGRATULATIONS FROM 
PRESIDENT WILLIAM McKINLEY 



AMONG THOSE WHO SENT CONGRATULATIONS TO GENERAL 
SMITH ON THE TWENTY-FIFTH ANNIVERSARY OF HIS PRESI- 
DENCY OF THE COMMERCIAL COLLEGE OF KENTUCKY UNI- 
VERSITY. ARE THE FOLLOWING: 



E. Bates, Pay- 
R. Buffington, 



President William McKinley. 

Chief Justice Melville W. Fuller, of 
the United States Supreme Court. 

Associate Justices David J. Brewer 
and Rufus W. Peckham of the 
United States Supreme Court. 

Hon. Lyman J. Gage, Secretary of 
the Treasury. 

Hon. Elihu Root, Secretary of War. 

Hon. John D. Long, Secretary of the 
Navy. 

Hon. W. T. Harris, United States 
Commissioner of Education. 

Lieutenant-General Nelson A. Miles, 
United States Army. 

Brigadier-General M. J. Ludington, 
Quartermaster General. 

Brigadier-General John M. Wilson, 

Chief of Engineers. 

Brigadier-General A. 
master General. 

Brigadier-General A. 
Chief of Ordnance 

GOVERNORS 

Governor W. T. Durbin, of Indiana. 

Governor J. W. Smith, of Md. 

Governor M. A. Othero, of N. M. 

Governor William Gregor, of R. I. 

Governor 3. R, Vansant, of Minn. 

Governor Chester B. Jordan, of N. H. 

Governor W. M. Crane, of Mass. 

Governor R. M. La Follette, of Wis- 

Governor John Hunn, of Del. 

Governor A. T. Bliss, of Mich. 

Governor Charles N. Herried, of S. D. 
UNITED STATES SENATORS 

Hon. W. J. DeBoe, of Kentucky. 

Hon. W. B. Allison, of Iowa. 

Hon. E. W. Pettus, of Alabama. 

Hon. G. L. Wellington, of Maryland. 

Hon. Jos. R. Hawley, of Connecticut. 

Hon. James Taliaferro, of Florida. 

Hon. John L. McLourin, of S. C. 

Hon. A. G. Foster, of Washington. 
EX-GOVERNORS 

Ex-Gov. James B. McCreary, of Ky. 

Ex-Gov. Asa S. Bushnell, of Ohio. 

Ex-Gov. John Carroll, of Maryland, 

Ex-Gov. John W. Hoyt, of Washing- 
ton, D. C. 

CLERGY 

Right Reverend T. U. Dudley, Bish- 
op, Kentucky. 

Right Reverend Lewis W Burton, 
Bishop, Kentucky. 

Rigiit Reverend W. G. McCloskey, 
Bishop, Kentucky. 

Reverend Geo. P. Wilson, D. D., 
Washington, D. C. 

Reverend W. S. Fulton, D. D., Pitts- 
burg, Pa. 

Reverend Geo. Joplin, Mt. Sterling. 



Reverend Father James P. Barry, 

Reverend R. A. Valentine, West Va, 

Reverend W. S. Maxwell, Kentucky. 

Colonel George W. Bain, Kentucky 

PRESIDENTS OF UNIVERSITIES 

President Chas. W. Elliot, LL. D., 
Harvard Universitjr, Mass. 

President Seth Low, Columbia Uni- 
versity, New York. 

Presdent Tucker, Washington and 
Lee University, "Virginia. 

°resident James B. Angell, LL. D., 
TT-=„r,. Q |i-v of Michigan. 

PRESIDENTS OF THE 

University of Illinois. 

University of Maine. 

University of Minnesota. 

Georgetown University. 

University of Pennsylvania. 

Catholic University of America. 

St. Louis University. 

Syracuse University. 

Marietta College. 

University of Oklahoma. 

Nebraska University. 

University of North Dakota. 

University of South Dakota. 

University of the South. 

E. Y. Mullens, Southern Baptist 
Theological Seminary. 

Prof. G. W. McCord, Ohio University. 

FROM CURATORS OF KENTUCKY 
UNIVERSITY 

Judge Edward T. Orear, Kentucky 
Court of Appeals. 

Hon. Chas. H. Grosvenor, M. C. 

Hon. E. S. Candler, Jr., M. C, 
Miss. 

Hon. L. D. Bonebrake, State Com- 
missioner of Schools of Ohio. 

Hon. John W. Yerkes, Commissioner 
of Internal Revenue, Washington, 
D. C. 

Hon. Cephas Brainerd, New York. 

Col. D. C. Smith, Illinois. 

Maj. A. T. Wood, Kentucky. 

William Duffey, Ohio. 

Erastus Blair, Ohio. 

Hon. John Pattison, Ohio. 

Prof. John Akles, Ohio. 

Dr. E. S. Evans, Ohio. 

Hon. Logan Murray, Kentucky. 

Hon. W. W. Weldon, Kentucky. 

Col. C. C. Mengle, Kentucky. 

Hon. John B. Kennedy, Member of 
Executive Committee of the State 
College. 

E. L. Fulton, Kansas. 

Hon. Chas. C. Fox, Kentucky. 

James Mortimer Montgomery, Sec- 
retary of the General Society of 
the Sons of the Revolution. 



A Successful Educator. 79 

EXTRACTS FROM LETTERS FROM OFFICERS OF KENTUCKY UNI- 
VERSITY WHO WERE UNABLE TO BE PRESENT AT THE AN- 
NIVERSARY EXERCISES. 

J. M. GRAVES, Versailles, Ky., Chairman of the Executive Committee 
of Kentucky University: "I congratulate you on this occasion and hope 
you may long continue to assist and guide in making men capable of head- 
ing the greatest commercial interests of this country as you have in the 
past quarter of a century." 

HON. Z. F. SMITH, Louisville, Ky., for more than thirty years a 
Curator of Kentucky University, wrote: "The success of the Commercial 
College of Kentucky University in an era of spirited competition is due to 
the ability with which you, Gen. Smith, have directed its management, and 
has been marvelous; it has been a most helpful inspiration throughout to 
the University. I do not know of another school of Commercial training 
west of the Alleghanies that can compare with this in the impress it has 
made upon this era in our country. Our University owes much of its present 
prosperity to the devoted energy and broad view of policy with which you 
have supported it." 

HON. HORACE MILLER, Paris, Ky., a Curator, wrote: "I am the 
oldest in point of service to Hon. Zack Smith, as Curator. Thirty years 
ago I was appointed by Governor Bishop on the Commercial College Com- 
mittee. I speak the unanimous voice of our people when they look upon the 
the Commercial College as the most useful of this great University." 

JOHN L. CASSELL, Curator, wrote: "Your College is well grounded 
in the confidence cf the people of the Mississippi Valley. I have had every 
opportunity to see its splendid results; I cannot speak too highly of it." 

REV. E. L. POWELL, Louisville. "As Curator of Kentucky Univer- 
sity it gives me pleasure to express my high appreciation of the splendid 
work done by the Commercial College of Kentucky University. Its President 
is deserving of the highest praise." 

REV. JOHN SWEENY, Paris, Ky., a Curator. "No college of the 
University is more prosperous, and more deserving of popularity than the 
Commercial College of Kentucky University. May you live to conduct 
this popular college twenty-five years more." 

REV. C. P. WILLIAMSON, Atlanta, Ga., a Curator. "The work done 
by your college I most heartily commend. Your interests in your students 
continues long after the separation of teacher and pupil, and this thoughtful 
feature truly recommends your work." 

W. S. DICKINSON, Cincinnati, O., a Curator. "I know Prof. Smith 
as an upright, Christian gentleman and deserving of confidence and patron- 
age." 



LETTERS RECEIVED FROM OTHERS 

From EX-GOVERNOR J. B. McCREARY — "The success which has 
rewarded your efforts for a quarter of a century and the conspicuous record 
of the Commercial College of Kentucky University, of which you are the 
honored President, are splendid testimonials of your popularity and quali- 
ficatons." 



80 Wileur R. Smith. 

From MRS. JEFFERSON DAVIS. "Please accept my sincere thanks 
for your kind invitation to be present at the anniversary of your Presi- 
dency of the Commercial College of Kentucky University. It would have 
given me great pleasure to be present had it been in my power, but illness 
has prevented even my acknowledging your courteous invitation, for which 
accept my thanks." 

From HON. W. T. HARRIS, U. S. Commissioner of Education, Bureau 
of Education, Washington, D. C. "It would give rne great pleasure to be 
present and to offer you my congratulations in person. T wish to express 
in this manner my high respect for your work, and to hope that the in- 
stitution over which you preside may have the benefit of at least twenty- 
five years more of your vigorous and able administration." 

EXTRACTS FROM SAMPLE LETTERS FROM CO-WORKERS IN BUSI- 
NESS EDUCATION. 

L. H. PACKARD, New York. "The President and graduates of the 
Packard Commercial School send greetings and congratulations. May the 
next quarter of a century bring added honor and prosperity." 

E. NELSON, Principal, Cincinnati, O. "I wish you many years of 
prosperous business." 

S. C. SPEER, Graduate, President American Business College. "t 

hope that one and all, who are fortunate enough to be present, will have a 
very pleasant time, and, knowing from experience what a pleasant time you 
gave the boys, I am sure that all will be amply repaid for their visit to their 
Alma Mater." 

H. T. LOOMIS, Graduate, Spencerian Business College. "Please accept 
my sincere congratulations, with the hope that you may continue to direct for 
at least another twenty-five years the affairs of the instiution over which 
you have so ably presided during the past quarter of a century." 

E. M. TURNER, Graduate, President Spencerian Institute. "It was at 
the old Commercial College of Kentucky University where I acquired my 
course of instruction and also my experience as a commercial teacher." 

S. R. VAN SANT, Governor Minnesota. "You are doing a splendid 
work, and I wish you success." 

CHESTER B. JORDAN, Governor New Hampshire. "It will be a 
great event in this history of the University and the life of Gen. Smith. 
I realize how firmly students become attached to a good President and a 
good University. The President often makes the institution. I wish you 
much joy." 

From EX-GOVERNOR JOHN W. HOYT, The University of the United 
States, Washington, D. C. "I desire to offer you my hearty congratulations. 
The success of this college under your adminstration appears to have not 
only been remarkable but unprecedented. The multitude of its graduates in 
all parts of the Union is itself high testimony to this effect. The steady 
growth of the institution for a quarter of a century affords high assurance 
of its future prosperity and enlargement. I sincerely hope that its course 



A Successful Educator. 81 

will still be onward and upward. Under more favorable circumstances, I 
should certainly avail myself of the invitation kindly tendered to be present 
and share in the pleasure of the occasion." 

GOVERNOR DURBIN, of Indiana, extends his congratulations to you 
on your long - and successful administration of a school of instruction that 
has become noted throughout the country. 

EX-GOVERNOR ASA S. BUSHNELL, of Ohio. "I regret exceedingly 
that it will not be my privilege to meet those who will be present and to 
hear the addresses of the distinguished gentlemen who will speak on that 
occasion. Be sure of my appreciation of the compliment of the invitation 
and best wishes for the success of your institution in all its departments, and 
sentiments of high regard." 

(Frank Leslie's Illustrated Weekiy) 

"Educational interests in the South during the past twenty-five years 
have had no stronger or more helpful friend than General Wilbur R. Smith, 
whose silver anniversary as Prdesident of the Commercial College of Ken- 
tucky University was celebrated with great eclat at Lexington on June 4th. 
General Smith was called to Kentucky University when a young man, and* 
nearly 10,000 young men and women have been educated by him. Graduates 
of the institution may be found occupying prominent positions of honor and 
trust, not only in the Southern States, but in many other parts of the Union. 

General Smith is a native of Ohio, and, although twenty-five years ago 
he did not know a man south of the Mason and Dixon line, he has been 
signally honored in being called to various responsible positions, as world's 
fair commissioner, Adjutant-General of Kentucky, besides being successful 
in banking and other enterprises. General Smith began his work in educating 
young men at a time when the young men of the South had to go elsewhere 
to receive a training which would enable them to take hold and manage the 
affairs of business,' at that time just beginning to recuperate from the ef-' 
fects of the late Civil War, and in this service he has been remarkably suc- 
cessful." 

From HON. JOHN YERKES, Commissioner of U. S. Internal 
Revenue, Treasury Department. '-I trust that the fiftieth anniversary of 
your presidency may be celebrated under as pleasing circumstances as 
surround this anniversary. Kindest personal wishes." 

From JUDGE ED. C. OREAR, Court of Appeals of Kentucky, Frank- 
fort. "I take advantage of this opportunity to extend my congratulations 
and best wishes for your continued well-being, and the prosperity of your 
justly famous institution." 



CONGRATULATIONS FROM MINISTERS 

From the RIGHT REVEREND LEWIS W. BURTON, Episcopal 
Bishop of the Diocese of Kentucky. "My dear General Smith: I congratu- 
late you on the twenty-five years of earnest, successful labor In teaching 
young men and women to earn their own living and to do their duty in that 
state of life to which God has called them. Wishing for you many more 
years of honor and prosperity, I am, my dear General, faithfully yours." 




PROFS. E. AV. SMITH AND W. R. SMITH WITH THEIR STUDENTS 
FROM FIFTEEN STATES AND JAPAN 



NOTE— The Japanese, K. Kawasaki, studont on the left of B. W. Smith, 
is now a prominent Banker in Tokio, Japan. He and Mr. George Redmon, 
brother-in-law of W. R. Smith made their home with W. R. Smith and 
family during their attendance at this college. 



A Successful Educator. 83 

From REV. W. S. FULTON, D. D. "My dear General Smith: I heartily 
congratulate you on the success you have had during these past twenty- 
five years, and I hope the next twenty-five years may see a more splendid 
building erected on the foundation already laid.' 

From REV. GEO. P. WILSON, D. D. "I have watched your career 
with pleasure. The tribute you will receive from the former students and 
graduates on June 4th will be deserved. May you receive another crown 
twenty-five years hence when other thousands shall rise up and call you 
blessed." 

From REV. RICHARD VALENTINE. "Accept thanks for kindly words 
of our 25th College Anniversary: My pen has been unwilling to announce 
the fact that I cannot be present and enjoy the interesting programme on 
the 4th inst., and in person congratulate you on the Twenty-fifth Anniver- 
sary of an administration that has given world-wide distinction and honor 
to the Commercial College of Kentucky University." 

From REV. GEORGE A. JOPLIN. "Accept my most hearty congratu- 
lations, with the hope tha/t you will be but beginning another quarter of a 
century of usefulness and honor." 

From REV. FATHER BARRY. "Though I cannot have the pleasure 
of being present tonight at the celebration of your Twenty-fifth Anniver- 
sary, 3 r et, I can most truthfully say, that I shall be there in thought, and 
that among your many friends, hot one will wish you more sincerely the 
joy and the well merited congratulations you will receive than he who now 
by anticipation participates in the festival." 

From COL. GEORGE W. BAIN, Prominent Lecurer. ."I regret en- 
gagement to lecture for a Chautauqua in Georgia comes on the evening of 
your anniversary. It would give me great pleasure to join those who will 
gather to honor, as well as congratulate one who has not only honored our 
city, but whose life work is felt throughout our whole country. May you 
have as many more years of great usefulness and then an evening of life 
like unto a golden sunset." 

From GOVERNOR M'MILLAN, a Former Student of Kentucky Uni- 
versity. "Unfortunately it is not possible for me to come, which 1 regret. 
I am thankful for the invitation extended and hope that many years of 
usefulness may be yours, and the University's good fortune. 



84 Wilbur R. Smith. 



LOVING CUP PRESENTED 

Before the close of the exercises with a benediction by the Rev. Robert 
O. Kirkwood, of the Second Presbyterian Church, Mr. William B. B'.-ock, a 
graduate, and Grand Esteemed Loyal Knight of the Benevolent and Protec- 
tive Order of Elks, presented General Smith with a silver loving cup in the 
name of the graduates of the institution, emblematic of their heartfelt con- 
gratulations. 

After a happy reply to Mr. Brock, General Smith turned to President 
Milligan and said: 

"Mr. President, ladies and gentlemen: 

"The honor conferred on me this evening by the distinguished speakers 
and this magnificent audience, and all it implies, at the end of a quarter of 
a century's work with Kentucky University, calls for a more eloquent re- 
sponse than I am able to give. 

"The alabaster box of your confidence and sympathy has surely been 
broken, the fragrance of which will sweeten and brighten the walk of its 
recipient through life. From the bottom of my heart I thank you. 

"Were it possible that my father, who, for twenty years was my co- 
worker, gone now to his reward could be visible to the human eye, I would 
take the wreath of encomium, so eloquently wrought, and place it with a 
sense of love and duty on his brow and say: 'To thee belongs the honor.' 

"Again, to have had the pleasure of associating with and instructing 
several thousand young men, to have had the sacred trust of their time and 
life's preparaton placed in my charge, and then have the keeping of that 
trust endorsed by them, now successful and progressive young men, repre- 
senting every financial, industrial and professional sphere, is the crowning 
honor of all, for which I am profoundly grateful. 

"President. Milligan, you, who, for a third of a century have been a 
member of the faeult}' of this University, and the exemplar of all uplifting 
principles to young men, I desire to thank you for your wise counsel and as- 
sistance in my work. 

"Members of the Board of Curators a.nd Executive Committee, who 
have ever been my advocates and friends, I do most sincerely appreciate this 
honor and official trust you have reposed in me for twenty-five years The 
memories of Regent Bowman, Governor Bishop, Generals Withers, Goodloe 
and others who called me here and bade me welcome, and were kind to me, 
a stranger, I sacredly revere. I cherish a feeling of gratitude to ex-Presi- 
dents White, Loos and Cave, and the officers and faculties of sister colleges 
and departments of Kentucky University, as well as to the citizens of Lex- 
ington. 

"Now, before the curtain falls on this evening's exercises, a word to 
the Alumni Association of the Commercial College of Kentucky University 
who have thus highly honored me. With a heart full of love and admiration 
for you, let. me say that if a time ever presents itself when you need an ad- 
vocate or a defense, depend upon me till this tongue that has tried to speak 
to you in the past is silent, or this right arm is powerless. When the books 
of your lives shall be closed and the last grand balance sheet shall be made 
out by the recording angel, may it be the record of a successful and hono- 
able career, bearing the seal of approval of Him who shall reckon the final 
account." 




SILVER LOVING CUP 

Presented General Smith at the Celebration of his 2 5th Anniversary as 

President of the Commercial College of Kentucky University. 

OMiniature fae-simile of Loving Cup. Sterling Silver; one-third of 

original size.) 
(Mr. Wm. B. Brock, who was selected to present the loving cup, grad- 
uated in 1888, and has since been Cashier at the Third National Bank, of 
this city. He is Grand Esteemed Loyal Knight of the Benevolent and Pro- 
tective Order of Elks. 

Mr. Brock's Address to General Smith 
"The gentlemen who have spoken have paid a just tribute to you, but 
to me has been assigned the pleasant duty of presenting this gift from 
your former graduates. This token has been selected as emblematic 
of our love and affection for you. In presenting it to you I also present the 
heartfelt congratulations and best wishes of every graduate of your col- 
lege. We earnestly hope that you may enjoy many years of happiness and 
prosperity, and that we will all live to celebrate the fiftieth anniversary 
of your work in as happy a manner as this, your twenty-fifth." 



86 Wilbur R. Smith. 

On June 10. 1908, the Board of Curators of Kentucky Uni- 
versity, as previously arranged and agreed upon, changed its name 
to Transylvania, which it had succeeded many years before. 
The name and fame of old Transylvania University were known 
for more than a hundred vears. its donors berns* Presidents Wash- 
ington, Madison, and other worthies. Tt had been visited by La- 
fayette, Aaron Burr and others and had as its Alumni, Justices of 
the Supreme Court Harlan and Lamar and hundreds of other dis- 
tinguished men. Henry Clay and many other great men of Ken- 
tucky watched its interests. 

At the time of change of name of Kentucky University to 
Transylvania, and in reply to the question of a representative of 
Kentucky University as to General Smithes wish in the transfer of 
the name of Kentucky University, under which he had given thirty 
years of his life, he stated he desired the Commercial Department 
of the University transferred to him, which was done by a resolu- 
tion, accompanied by a beautiful pitcher. 

He addressed the Board of Curators of old Kentucky Uni- 
versity and was not unmindful of their co-operation and helpful- 
ness to him. Different members of the Board replied to his ad- 
dress and spoke most appreciatively of his loyal efforts for, and in- 
terest in the University, after which he was invited to dine with 
them at Hamilton College. 

After nearly three years' conducting the aforesaid college as 
the Wilbur R. Smith Business College, successor to the Commercial 
College of Kentucky University, he had the college incorporated 
with a capital stock of $25,000 preferred stock and $25,000 com- 
mon stock, with the following incorporators : 

Wilbur E. Smith. President, for thirty-two years President of 
Commercial College of Kentucky University. 

Judge Matthew Walton, Vice-President, Attorney-at-Law and 
Chairman Board of Curators of Transylvania University. 

William Brock, Treasurer, Cashier Third 'National Bank. 

James E. McFarland, Secretary, Cashier Lexington City Na- 
tional Bank and member of City Council. 

J. L. Watkins, Ex-President Commercial Club, Vice-President 
Union Bank and Trust Company, Merchant. 

The stockholders consist of City, County and Government Of- 
ficials, Merchants, Bankers, etc., as it now exists at this writing. 




PITCHER PRESENTED TO WILBUR R, SMITH BY OFFICERS OF 

KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY 

(June 10, 1908) 

(Accompanying this were resolutions under seal) 




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RESOLUTIONS UNDER SEAL 

Presented Gen. W. R. Smith by Kentucky University, June 10th, 1908, 
after 32 years the President of its Commercial Department. 



A Successful Educator. 

(Copy of) 
RESOLUTIONS PRESENTED WILBUR R. SMITH. 

At a Meeting of the 
BOARD OP CURATORS 

of 
KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY 



^ 




at Lexington, H were unanimously adopted 

held on June 10, 19 08, E^^KnlriMlBfifl the following resolutions 



>\ HERE AS, By recent enactment of the Legislature of Kentucky, the 
name of Kentucky University has been changed to Transylvania Univer- 
sity, and 

WHERE AS, For more than thirty-two years under the Presidency of 

WILBUR R. S'MTTH 

the Commercial College of Kentucky University has been one of the col- 
leges of the University, sending forth its graduates into the business 
world, many of them to take very high rank in their respective fields of 
activity, and 

WHEREAS, The Executive Committee of Kentucky University has 

transferred to Wilbur R. Smith all the right, title and interest of the Uni- 
versity in the said Commercial College and has agreed with him that he 
may conduct the said school under the name Wilbur R. Smith Business 
College, successor to the Commercial College of Kentucky University, or 
such other similar name as may insure to him the benefits that may belong 
to the said Commercial College by reason of the honorable name which 
the said College has acquired under the Presidency of Wilbur R. Smith; 
now, therefore, be it 

RESOLVED, By the Board of Curators of Kentucky University, at 
this the last meeting before assuming the name Transylvania University, 
that it does hereby place on record its appreciation of the strict fidelity 
to duty and the loyal support of the University in its every Interest that 
marked the work of Wilbur R. Smith since the Commercial College was 
committed to his charge, and the members of the Board do hereby testifv 
to the high character of General Smith as a man and a citizen, and they 
do hereby assure him of their continued interest in his work and wish 
for him unbounded success. 

MATTHEW WALTON, Chairman. 

[SEAL] J. W. PORTER, Secretary. 




(Photographed by a graduate in the office of his College October, 1909.) 
GENERAL WILBUR R. SMITH, LEXINGTON, KY. 
At the end of 40 years' service as a teacher in educating 15,000 young 
men and women for a higher and more lucrative field of usefulness and in- 
creasing their earning power in the aggregate computed at over one million 
dollars a year, over that received by them prior to attending his college. 



CHAPTER V. 
World's Columbian Exposition. 

Its Grandeur. 400th Anniversarj' of the Discovery of America by Columbus. 
Kentucky's Appropriation $100,000 for Its Representation. General 
Smith was Appointed by Governor John Young Brown as One of the 
Commissioners — Other Members of the Board. No Liquor Permitted 
in the Kentucky State Building which was also Closed on Sunday. 
Appointed a Juror of Awards. Meeting with and having as his Co- 
workers Commissioners and Jurors of Awards, Prominent People from 
the States and Foreign Countries. Awards — Receptions — Reminiscen- 
ces. Invited by Foreign Commissioners to Become a Member of Their 
Club. Unique Present of Home Spun Glass from, part of Material from 
which the dress of a Princess was made. Governor John Young 
Brown in Message to the Legislature, Commends the Commissioners. 



IT has been stater! that the World's Colnm'bian Exposition, 1893, 
was the grandest exposition in the history of the world. Its 
construction cost more than $1.8,000,000. Average daily at- 
tendance; over one hundred thousand people. Average daily re- 
ceipts, $90,000; average daily expense, $21,000. 

The Great Liberal Arts Building where the Educational de- 
partment and Jury of Awards, of which General Smith was a 
member, had their daily meetings, covered an area of forty-four 
acres and cost $1,500,000. In case of a storm the whole Imperial 
Army of Germany could have found shelter within its walls. There 
were one hundred and ten other buildings, with one hundred and 
fifty miles of arranged exhibits, which were seen and admired by 
twenty millions of people. There were twenty thousand officials. 

The Kentucky Building was dedicated June 1st, 1893, Presi- 
dent Dulaney presiding, and orations were delivered by Governor 
John Young Brown and Hon. W. 0. Bradley. 

It is estimated that fifteen thousand Kentuckians, including 
four hundred school children of Lexington attended the World's 
Fair at a cost of nearly one million dollars. 

Kentucky won more than two hundred medals. Lexington and 
Central Kentucky leading in products, winning nearly one-half of 
the prizes for hemp, wheat and corn, also received awards for edu- 
cational exhibits. 

Kentucky received ninety-six awards for agriculture, seventy 
for live stock, thirty in minerals, four in forestry, two in horticul- 
ture, and for agriculture the awards were divided as follows : hemp, 
one; tobacco, nine: corn, thirty-three: oats, three; rye, one; wheat, 
eleven; grasses and seeds, twenty-four. 




GOVERNOR JOHN YOUNG BROWN OF KENTUCKY 




Gov. Brown in his message to the Legislature of Kentucky, Janua/y 
2, 1894, commends the Board of Managers as follows : 

"The Board of Managers of the Columbian Exposition have made 
their report which is transmitted to your honorable body. Of the appro- 
priation of one hundred thousand dollars, they have returned to the 
Treasury of the State the sum of twenty thousand dollars. (An amount 
in which litigation is pending.)" 

"I heartily congratulate the gentlemen composing this Board upon 
this work. They have discharged their duty with faithfulness and inte m 
grity. The State has reason to be proud of its exhibits at the Exposition 
and owes a debt of gratitude to the State's managers. They have had 
many difficulties to contend with but have acquitted themselves nobly well 
and I most cordially thank them for the honest discharge of their duties." 








KENTUCKY BUILDING 

World's Columbian Exposition, Chicago, 111., 1893. 




LIBERAL ARTS BUILDNG 

World's Columbian Exposition, 1893. 

Where the Jury of Awards met daily in conference and passed 

on awards. 



94 Wilbur R. Smith. 

The closing clay of the Exposition was October 30, 1893. A 
few souvenirs were brought home by General Smith, among which 
was a Juror's badge (silver), Commissioner of Kentucky badge 
(gold,) large Hungarian vase, Onyx clock used on mantel, leaves 
of tobacco from, fifteen foreign countries, including Japan, Cape 
Colony, Brazil, Uruguay and Russia, 

General Smith won the esteem and confidence of Governor 
Brown by his frank, yet positive loyalty in his political convictions. 
Governor Brown belonged to a prominent family and had much 
experience in public life. He was elected several times to Con- 
gress. At one time he received a reprimand from Speaker James G. 
Blaine of the IT. S. House of Representatives, which reprimand he 
(Brown) declared he would wear as a badge of honor. 

The Commissioners from Kentucky besides General Smith 
were: Hon. W. H. Dulaney, Banker and Capitalist, Louisville, 
Ky. ; Hon. John W. Yerkes, of Danville, Ky., afterwards candidate 
for Governor of Kentucky, also United States Commissioner of 
Internal Revenue, Washington, D. C. ; Judge James D. Black, 
Barbourville, Ky. ; Hon. A. D. James, Penrod, Ky., Legislator and 
afterwards IT. S. Marshal; Hon. J. D. Clardy, Newsteacl, Ky., 
afterwards member of Congress ; Rev. Hezekiah Meeks, Ashland, 
Kj- The Lady Commissioners were Mrs. Brown and Miss Lucy 
Hill, daughter of General A. P. Hill. 

His appointment necessitated the passage of a special bill 
through the Legislature calling for an increase in the original num- 
ber of Commissioners in order that the Blue Grass section could 
have representation*. 

On his confirmation, the Speaker of the House, Senators and 
Representatives of the Kentucky Legislature in session, and others, 
telegraphed their congratulations. 

He was endorsed by IT. S. Senators Carlisle and Blackburn, Ex- 
Governors, Congressmen and over one hundred members of the 
Legislature, regardless of their political affiliation. Immediately 
after his confirmation by the Senate and receiving his commission, 
he visited fifteen counties in twenty days and made an active can- 
vass for exhibits, a very large number of which received awards. 

He personally met the State, Territorial and Foreign Commis- 

*A joint resolution No. 123, was passed by the City Council of Lexing- 
ton, Ky. } February 25, 1893, urging the Representatives for that city to 
use every honorable method for the prompt passage of the bill. The same 
night, the Chamber of Commerce passed resolutions, instructing its Secretary 
to wire its Representatives the unanimous wish of that body for the passage 
of the bill. 




JURY OF. AWARDS, LIBERAL ARTS BUILDING 

Members of the Awards Committee in the Department of Liberal Arts, 
World's Columbian Exposition, 1893. 

(Jury numbered seventy, from eleven foreign countries and twenty- 
one States) 

First Row, from left to right — Prof. J. C. Heard, Russia, Assistant Rus- 
sian Minister of War; (Mrs. Harriet Higgins, Curacoa; Hulda Lundin, 
iSweden; Dr. S. H. Peabody, U. S. Chief Department L.; Brother Mau- 
relian, U. IS., Representative of Bishop Spaulding, President of Cath- 
olic Exhibit; K. Buenz, Germany, President; Gen. J. T. Eaton, Com- 
'nilssioner of Education of the United States, Second Vice-President; 
Prof. J. H. Gore, Columbian College, U. S., Assistant 'Secretary; 
Prosper Lamal, Switzerland; Hon. J. H. Shinn, (State Superintendent 
of Instruction of Arkansas. 

Second Row, from left to right — Max Schiedmayer, Germany; Miss I. J. 
Brooks, U. IS.; Mrs. M. J. Senano, U. S.; Lieutenant Ogloblinsky, Rus- 
sia, of the Russian Imperial Navy; Prof. A. Westphal, Berlin, Ger- 
many; Prof. W. R. Hoag, U. S.; Mrs. Susanna M. D. Fry, U. S.; Mrs. 
V. Thompson, U. S.; Mrs. B. Gray, U. S.; Miss K. Fredrikson, Sweden; 
Mrs. A. G. Spencer, U. 3. 

Third Row, left to right — J. M. Hazen, U. S.; H. Burger, Switzerland; 
Prof. Vogel, Germany, President of the Board Burns; C. T. Stuart, 
U. S.; Prof. W. R. Smith. U. S.; B. Pensky, Germany; E. P. Kovalevs- 
ky, Russia; Mrs. Bartlett, U. S. 

Fourth Row, left to right — Miss E. Sabin, U. S.; Miss A. Chapin, U. S; 
unknown; W F. Terry, New South Wales; Prof. L. L. Dimcha, Uni- 
versity of St. Petersburg, Russia: A. 'M. Edward. U. S.; J. H. Mc- 
Cibbons, U. S. 



96 Wilbur R. Smith. 

sioners, a very large number of whom were afterwards his personal 
friends. 

He met with members of the Board at Louisville and spent 
several months in Chicago. 

The Senate Bill providing an appropriation of one hundred 
thousand dollars to have Kentucky represented and not misrepre- 
sented at the World's Fair in 1893 had incorporated in it that "no 
liquor could be sold or given away in that building; also that this 
building should be closed on Sundays." 

The result of his work, as viewed by President Dulaney, will 
perhaps testify as to its value, for when he was appointed one of 
the Jurors of Awards of this Exposition by its Executive Committee, 
he had to resign his Commissionership. President Dulaney wrote* 
to Governor Brown requesting him to accept his temporary resig- 
nation as Commissioner from Kentucky, but to reinstate him after 
his work as Juror was finished, the reason for his reinstatement 
being that his valuable services were needed by the Board. 

While it was a pleasure for him to view the wealth and beauty 
of the Pair, costing millions upon millions of dollars, the meeting 
of friends and making new friends from all over the world, includ- 
ing Governors of various States, titled men from abroad, yet none 
were more appreciated by him than his old friends. 

BOARD OF MANAGERS 

W. H. Dulaney, Pres. 

Kentucky State Building, Jackson Park 

CHICAGO, ILL. 

July 17, 1S93. 
*Hon. John Young Brown. 

Dear Sir: I am informed that Prof. W. R. Smith's services as a mem- 
ber of the' Jury of the the World's Fair is desired. The special department 
in which his labors are sought will require about two or three weeks' time 
during July and August. His services as Commissioner will not be required 
during this time, as our State interests are moving along well. The rules 
governing the selection of Jurors will require his resignation during his 
service as Juror, but after he has completed these duties, I should like to 
have him reinstated as Commissioner, believing it would be to the best in« 
terests of the State at large. Most respectfully, 

W. H. DULANEY, President. 




ADM IN IS TR AT I ON 




MACHINERY HALL 



98 Wilbur R. Smith. 

TELEGRAM BY U. S. SENATOR WILLIAM LlNDSEY 

THE WESTERN UNION TELEGRAPH COMPANY 

Frankfort, Ky., . , 1S93. 

To Hon. John Boyd Thatcher, 

Commlsioner of Awards, 

World's Fair, Chicago, 111. 
T take pleasure in commending- to your favorable consideration Prof. 
Wilbur R. Smith, Lexington, Ky., whose name has been mentioned in con- 
nection with the position of Judge in the important Department of Liberal 
Arts. I know Mr. Smith personally, and am free to say that I regard him as 
admirably equipped for the work. He is a gentleman of character and 
standing and I believe no better selection could be made. 

WILLIAM LINDSAY. 

WORLD'S COLUMBIAN EXPOSITION 
Office of the 
DIRECTOR GENERAL 
of the 
EXPOSITION 
Department of Horticulture, 
J. M. Samuels, Chief. 

Hon. John Boyd Thatcher, 

. Committee on Awards, 

World's Columbian Exposition. 
Dear Sir: 

I take pleasure in presenting and endorsing the name of Prof. W. R. 
Smith of Kentucky as a member of the Jury for the Department of Liberal 
Arts. He is a gentleman of character and accomplishments, shown by the 
different positions of honor and trust to which he has been called. For more 
than twenty years he has been a successful business educator, several years as 
President of the Commercial College of Kentucky University of which I am 
a graduate. He is a World's Fair Commissioner from his State, also Presi- 
dent of the Chamber of Commerce, and Vice President of a National Bank 
of Lexington. His having been a Director of a Safetj^ Vault and Trust Co., 
and for years a practical accountant, renders him well qualified to give the 
Department referred to, valuable services, especially in the line of commer- 
cial work. I would deem it a personal favor to have Prof. Smith selected as 
a member of one of the juries. Respectfully, 

J. M. SAMUELS, 

Chief Dept. of Horticulture. 

Gov. Brown gave Gen. Smith a leave of one month's absence 
from his duties as Commissioner to accept the position as Juror 
of Awards tendered him by Hon. John Boyd Thatcher through 
Gov. Hoyt. Gov. Foster of Louisiana presided at the meeting of 
the National Commissioners when his nomination was unanimously 
confirmed. He was assigned group 154 Commerce, Trade and 
Banking in the Department of Liberal ^\rts. 

The value of his services as Juror of Awards is best shown by 
the following, handed him by Go\ernor Hoyt, being an extract 
from a complimentary letter received from him : 



World's Columbian Exposition. 99 

WORLD'S FAIR COLUMBIAN COMMISSION 

Executive Committee on Awards 

JOHN BOYD THATCHER, Chairman 

CHICAGO, ILL., September 21, 1893. 
Prof. Wilbur R. Smith. 
Dear Sir: 

I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 
9th inst. tendering' your resignation of the office of Judge for the Depart- 
ment of Liberal Arts; and while commending the satisfactory manner in 
which you have discharged the important duties assigned you, it but re- 
mains for me to accept your resignation, with the cordial acknowledgment 
-of the value of your services. 

Very respectfully, 

JOHN BOYD THATCHER, 

Chm. Executive Com. on Awards. 

On returning from Lexington, Ivy., to the AY'orld's Fair where 
Tie had been to accompany his Secretary., he found Mrs. Brown and 
Miss Lucy Hill, Lady Commissioners from Kentucky, awaiting him 
with the information that Hon. John G. Carlisle, Secretary of the 
United States Treasury, was to he given a reception at the Ken- 
fueky Building, and that President Dulaney of the Board of Com- 
missioners had requested him to do the ''honors of the occasion." 

Mr. Carlisle arrived at 2 o'clock on the day referred to, and 
■after a few minutes' conversation was invited to the room of the 
Board of Managers, where he doifed his coat and rested a few 
minutes. At 3 o'clock, the time announced for the reception, 
the doors were thrown open to a constant stream of those who wish- 
ed to pay their respects to Mr. Carlisle. The callers formed in 
line at the door, and passed to the center of the hall, where they 
found the receiving party standing near the Clay statue which was 
decorated with the National colors. The receiving party consisted 
of, besides Commissioner Smith, Hon. and Mrs. John G. Carlisle, 
Logan Carlisle, Hon. J. D. Clardy. Commissioner, and Mrs. Brown. 

It was well that the conventional card form was observed on 
such occasion, for he was a little perplexed at the names of callers 
from eighteen foreign countries. Mrs. Harriett Beecher Stowe 
headed the delegation of ladies from a meeting of Women Commis- 
sioners. The Foreign Commissioners came in a group, then For- 
eign Officials. Ices, etc., were served in the Ladies' parlors. 

General Smith came near meeting with an accident at the 
Fair by extending courtesies to an old Elder of the Presbyterian 
Church. The gentleman referred to was ex-Governor Charles An- 
derson of Ohio, afterwards a resident of Kentucky, who succeed- 
ed Governor John Brough of Ohio. He was introduced to Com- 
missioner Smith by President Dulaney, who informed him "con- 
fidentially" that he wanted to see a horse race, for a purse of fifty 



100 Wiljbur R. Smith. 

thousand dollars, that was coming off that afternoon, and too, that 
although then a Kentuckian. he had never seen a horse race. Gov- 
ernor Anderson was accompanied by his two beautiful grand-daugh- 
ters. General Smith told him that on account of his age he would 
help him to gain his desired ambition. Having an appointment at 
the Administration Buildinff. he took the Intramural Eailwav and 
accompanied the Governor and young ladies. They got off at the sta- 
tion north of the place of his destination in order to show the 
Governor the way to the race course, and after giving him direc- 
tions, tried to re-enter the moving cars, the low doors of which 
were partially closed and in attempting to jump over the railing 
was struck by an iron post and pushed into the cars or he would 
have fallen fifty feet below. 

Commissioners were expected, in true Kentucky style to ex- 
tend courtesies and to be agreeable to visitors that their nosition, 
though frequently not their inclination, made it possible for them 
to do. For instance, what was more troublesome than to go up 
"Midway" sometimes every day and to visit the Chicago theaters 
to see "America." 

Of all the fine receptions given at the Fair, the one at the 
Woman's Building, by the Lady Commissioners, to the Jurors of 
Awards, was the finest. The reception to General Frederick D. 
Grant and his wife in the parlors of the New York Building was 
elegant, the only thing to mar the festivities on that occasion being 
the sudden death of one of the Commissioners of New York in an 
adjoining room. 

At receptions given by the 'State and. National Commission- 
ers, the Commissioners of the States were invited and admitted by 
card. Foreign Commissioners, when giving a reception, presented 
their friends with the finest drinks and edibles from their re- 
spective countries. The Commissioners were dressed elegantly, and 
young ladies, of their respective nationalities, served, delicacies, 
while their national air was discoursed by a band. 

The California reception was a most brilliant affair, Mr. De 
Young and the Governor being present. The fruits of the vintage 
of that State were dispensed in variety of tastes and forms. At 
the New Jersey reception, peaches by the car load were distributed 
to the guests. 

At a luncheon by Commissioner Smith to Governor John W. 
Hoyt in the Kentucky State Building, there were present besides 
the host and guests of honor, Mrs. Wilbur Smith, Mrs. George 
Chafee and her daughters, Misses 01 lie and Lucie, Miss Hill, and 
several representatives of foreign countries. 

Not only did Gen. Smith take a prominent part in official 
dinners, banquets and receptions at the Fair, but he frequently ex- 



World's Columbian Exposition. 101 

tended hospitality proverbial to Kentucky to his personal friends 
on his own account. Among these experiences as host was a dinner 
given to Hon. George Denny and his family from Lexington. Judge 
Denny was an eminent lawyer and a leading Republican, a noted 
orator and a most influential stump speaker. Among the guests 
on this occasion was Mrs. Eugenia Dunlap Potts, the Kentucky 
authoress, whose hooks adorn the shelves of Gen. Smith's library, 
and who was well known in fields of philanthropy, patriotism, 
church and public spirited work. 

General Smith met and formed most pleasant acquaintances 
among the Commissioners of all the foreign countries, men who 
were appointed by the Crowued Heads to represent their various 
interests at the World's Fair in their respective beautiful buildings. 

He was invited to become a member of prominent clubs at the 
Exposition. 

BRITISH AND CANADIAN EXCHANGE CLUB 

Col. A. J. McKenzie, Vice President Board of Control, Columbian Exposition 
Col. Geo. R. Davis, Director General Columbian Exposition 
Hon. Lyman J. Gage, President First National Bank 

CHICAGO, ILL., March 2d, 1S93. 
Mr. W. R. Smith, Esq., 

Lexington, Ky. 
Dear Sir: 

I am directed, by the Committee having - supervision, to invite you to 
become a member of this Exchange Club, whose purposes and advantages 
are clearly set forth in the statement herewith. 

A large number of prominent English and Canadian gentlemen will 
make their headquarters here while in Chicago, and it is desirable that a 
representative American membership, selected from the same circles, should 
be invited to meet them. In order that such membership may be entirely 
acceptable it is confined exclusively to gentlemen who receive personal in- 
vitations, and is, therefore, quite limited. 

The ladies or a member of a family will be entitled to all the privi- 
leges of the Exchange Club, and the committee hopes that you will indicate 
your acceptance of this invitation by mailing to this office the enclosed re- 
quest for membership duly signed. The courtesy of a prompt reply will be 
especially appreciated. Yours respectfully, 

L. W. BROWN, Secretary. 

The following are some of the members for the season of 1893: 
Hon. Chas. Foster, Secretary of Treasury, Fostoria, Ohio. 
Hon. Stephen B. Elkins, Secretary of War, Elkins, W. Va. 
Hon. C. N. Fulton, U. S. Senator, California. 
Stuyvesant Fish, Esq., 214 Broadway, New York City. 
Hon. T. T. Crittenden, ex-Governor Missouri, Kansas City, Mo. 
Hon. D. H. Johnson, Judge TJ. S. Circuit Court, Milwaukee, Wis. 
Hon. Frank Brown, Governor of Maryland, Baltimore, Md. 



102 Wilbur R. Smith. 

General Smith was presented with skeins of spun glass from? 
the robe of Princess Infanta Enlalie. 

ONE OF THE PRODUCTS OF AMERICAN GENIUS THAT DELIGHTED 
THE PRINCESS, AS TOLD AT THE EXPOSITION. 

Princess Eualie, upon her return home, will introduce into the royal" 
wardrobes of Europe a new and peculiar product of American invention. 
Her Highness, since arriving in this country, has seen many things for- 
which admiration has been expressed. Saturday afternoon while making a 
trip through cosmopolitan Midway Plaisance, her eyes rested upon an object 
which seems to have charmed her above all others. She made no hesitation 
in saying it delighted her when it was first presented to her view, and long- 
after she left the Plaisance thoughts of possessing a sample filled her mind. 
Sunday her mind was made up to procure it at any cost, and negotiations 
were at once entered into for it. 

This product of our genius which the Royal lady has so singularly- 
honored by her wish for it is, of course, a dress. But it is a dress such 
as no other woman has yet worn, although one, a distinguished actress, 
had found it before her and had made arrangements for having one made. 
The dress is to be made of glass, and will be woven especially for the- 
Princess at the works on the Plaisance. The material is made from a 
warp of silk woven in with a body of spun glass so delicate in texture that 
it is pliable as the softest silk. The process was invented but recently, and 
none of the peculiar fabric has yet been put upon the market except in 
small articles, such as neckties, and these only as souvenirs from, the 
works on the Plaisance. 

With the present facilities for manufacturing, it can be made but 
slowly and at great cost. One yard each day is considered a big turnout. 
It is, therefore, expensive material and the dress which the Princess will 
have when completed will cost about $5,000. Cost, however, will not be 
taken into consideration so long as the Princess is pleased with the figure 
and fit. It will be presented to her by the glass works, when finished, and' 
will be taken to Spain for the especial delight of the courtiers at home. 
Manager Libby, of the glass works, said that all arrangements had not 
been completed for the acceptance of the dress, but that they were under 
way and would doubtless be finished. 

Governor Brown in his message January 2, 1394, to the Legis- 
lature of Kentucky, said : 

The Board of Managers of the Columbian Exposition have made their 
report which is transmitted to your honorable body. Of the appropriation 
of one hundred thousand dollars, they have returned to the Treasury of 
the State the sum of twenty thousand dollars. (An amount in which litiga- 
tion is pending). 

I heartily congratulate the gentlemen composing this Board upon their- 
work. They have discharged their duty with faithfulness and integrity. 
The State has reason to be proud of its exhibits at the Exposition and 
owes a debt of gratitude to the State's managers. They have had many 
difficulties to contend with but have acquitted themselves nobly well and' 
I most cordially thank them for the honest discharge of their duties. 

FAIR MEDALS 
(Lea.der, November 7, 1S93). 

Lexington and Central Kentucky, enlisted in the army of World's Fair 
exhibitors, under the leadership of Commissioner Wilbur R. Smith, cap- 
tured nearly one-half of the agricultural prizes. Immediately upon his 
appointment by Governor Brown, Professor Smith visited fifteen counties 
in twenty days, and to these counties have been awarded many medals, 
a large number being on the exhibits collected and shipped by him to the 
Fair only a few weeks before it opened. 

The Leader emphasizes the fact that Central Kentucky and the whole - 
State is indebted to Professor Smith for his hard and effective work. 



CHAPTEE VI. 

UNITED STATES SEN"ATOB WILLIAM 0. BRADLEY. 

(Former Governor of Kentucky) 

Preface: An estimate from a personal friendship of over twenty years. An 
incident during the last illness of the Senator's son in 1S92 ? makes 
him and General Smith friends. Governor Bradley's oration at the 
opening exercises of the Kentucky State Building at Columbian Ex- 
position (1S93). Accompanying Colonel Bradley in his Campaign for 
Governor (1895). His Inauguration, an inspiring lesson. Platform 
on which he won. Commissioned as Colonel on bis s-taff, 1895. General 
Smith's reception at his home in honor of Governor Bradley, a bril- 
liant and notable occasion, accoinpanied by his Military Staff ; State 
Militia, State officials and prominent Members of the Legislature. 
Accompanying the Governor on his visits to Governors of other States 
and on important meetings and conferences. Centennial Anniversary 
of Augusta, Ky. Governor Bradley accepts President-elect McKin- 
ley's invitation to visit him and is accompanied by General Smith 
He accompanies Governor Bradley on his visit to the Governor of 
Georgia, and attends the Atlanta Exposition — Present at receptions 
given to Governors. Accompanies Governor Bradley to Nashville Ex- 
position, guests of the Governor of that State. Attends State and 
National Conventions, Political Conferences and Receptions. Christen- 
ing of the Battleship Kentucky, oration by Governor Bradley, and 
banquet. Personal recollections of the Spanish-American War, Mobi- 
lization of Troops. Appointed Adjutant-General. Visits Senator Hanna 
and President McKinley in behalf of "party unity" in Kentucky. Re- 
fuses, with two other friends, to allow their names to go on the 
State ticket with others then distasteful to Governor Bradley. Review 
of Troops at Camp Hamilton. Secretary of War Alger's Address. 
Dramatic Scenes. Important Suggestions regarding the State Guards. 
Resignation 'as Adjutant-General. Letters. Election of Governor 
Bradley as United States Senator. Eight graduates and twelve pa- 
trons of General Smith's College, Members of the Legislature a'; 
that time. 

Responding to a request from the compiler of these reminis- 
cences for a brief personal preface to this chapter relating to Sena- 
tor Brad]py, the following was dictated by General Smith: 

"It is a pleasure and privilege to place on record my great 
admiration for Senator William 0. Bradley. Our acquaintance 
was brought about more than twenty years ago, during the last 
illness of his noble son, George Bradley. The tie of friendship thus 
solemnly linked has been firmly welded by intervening years. 

Senator Bradley, as a politician. Governor, and United States 
Senator, as an Orator, Jurist, Lecturer and Statesman, stands pre- 
eminent in that galaxy of Kentuckians, who have made this State 
famous. 

NOTE — As Senator Bradley's Messages and Addresses will no doubt be 
printed, the editors of this book have deferred incorporating or referring to 
only a few, — they are among the most classic and powerful ever uttered or 
penned by man. 



104 Wilbur R. Smith. 

While lie is the leader of the Republican party of his State, 
and the most prominent in the South, vet his friends and advo- 
cates are numbered by the thousands in opposing parties. 

His matchless voice I have heard before political assemblages 
for his party, being recognized as the greatest vote getter in 
Kentucky. 

In his inaugural address on taking the oath as Governor, I 
was impressed by his solemn vow, to obey and uphold the constitu- 
tion of his beloved. State, and maintain law and order, which prom- 
ise the records attest he sacredly kept. With uplifted hand and a 
look as though he had caught a vision, he asked God's guidance in 
the discharge of his duties, and while Governor, that prayer was 
granted. 

In his inaugural address delivered December 10, 1895, he 
said in part : 

"I shall do right as God enables me to see the right; to 
be just, as He enables me to determine what is just, and 
by the love I cherish for the State of my birth, do all that 
within me lies to advance her prosperity, enforce her laws, 
protect her citizens and maintain her honor, remembering 
at all times that I am not the Governor of a party but of 
all the people." 

I have read his messages as Governor, including enactments 
for the amelioration of the distressed, including the Reform 
School, for those who, in early years had been handicapped and 
convicted through inherited tendencies and their environments. 

His message for an appropriation for a State monument at 
Ohickamauga Park for Kentucky's dead heroes, contained these 
words : 

"As we are united in life and they in death, lei one 
monument perpetuate their deeds, and one people forgetful 
cf all asperities, forever hold in grateful remembrance all 
the glories of that terrible conflict, which made all men free 
and retained every star in the Nation's flag." 

At the World's Columbian Exposition, before thousands of 
Kentuckians, diplomats and commissioners, representing the states 
and many foreign countries, he delivered a wonderful oration at 
the opening of the Kentucky State Building. 

His lectures before Chautauquas and Universities and various 
organizations were masterpieces of rhetoric and logic, their diction 
and English being like new gold coin. 

His last oration on Decoration Day is part of the records of 
the United States Senate. 

His logical, terse arguments before iud«:e and iurv his elo- 



Senator W. O. Bradley. 105 

quence resounding in many a court room caused his legal practice 
to extend even to the United States Supreme Court. 

pre has a wonderful memory. After getting his addresses 
crystallized he would memorize and deliver them, without reference 
to notes or manuscript, holding his audience spell-bound, for several 
hours. 

His eloquence in District, State and National conventions was, 
indeed, most convincing. As a lecturer, before literary and religious 
assemblies and addresses before the Senate, his sublime eloquence 
was such as to command the close attention of his hearers. He waa 
thanked by President Taft for advocating measures he proposed for 
upholding the Constitution of the United States, and maintaining 
the honor and dignity of our Xation. 

Senator Bradley is an indefatigable worker, of tireless energy, 

endowed, as it were, with an intuition to grasp at once the details 
of any proposition with which he has to do. In appearance, digni- 
fied, and possessed with a high sense of right and honor. He is a 
polished conversationalist, a fine after-dinner speaker, and as before 
s-aid, a convincing and logical advocate before courts. As a lee- 
turer, he holds his audience as by magic. With a Websterian mind, 
posesssing a strong, fervid delivery, he has, by his oratory, wonder- 
ful and magnetic personality, done much toward shaping the des- 
tiny of this State and Xation. 

I voice the sentiments of Kentuckians who pronounce him 
among the greatest of Kentuckians. I would place an immortelle 
wreath at his feet, bearing the inscription. "To W. 0. Bradley, 
whose name is a synonym of loyalty in conviction and true to a 
friend." 

It was during the summer of 1892, soon after the return of 
General Smith's family from Asheville, X. C, where they had 
spent three months for their son., George Chafee Smith's health, 
that he first wrote to Governor W. 0. Bradley at Lancaster, Ky., 
as he was informed that the Governor's only son was ill, and sug- 
gested that he take him to Asheville, X. C, for recuperation in 
case he should survive the attack of typhoid fever, and which Gov- 
ernor Bradley said he would do if his son was spared, but the noble 
boy died. 

It was during the campaign of 189-3, when Governor Bradley 
as the Republican candidate for Governor, and upon his invitation, 
that he accompanied him from Tiichmoncl, Ivy., to Paris, Win- 
chester and Lexington in a private car, and when he and Mr. Am 
gustus E. Willson, afterwards Governor, were making speeches ove T 
the State. 




U. S. SENATOR, Ex-GOV. W. O. BRADLEY. 
Governor Bradley's Tribute to General Smith. 

Governor Bradlev's sincerity and devotion to a friend is well known. 
He gave to the Legislators who stood steadfastly by him for six weeks in 
his Senatorial race the title of "Grand Old Guard," saying that Napoleon's 
famous old guard never stood truer. 

His beautiful tribute to his personal friend and adviser, General 
Wilbur Smith, given on the 2 5th anniversary of the General's Presidency 
of the Commercial College of Kentucky University, an account of which 
appeared in the paper at that time, is reproduced below. 

Referring to General Smith, he said: 

"There is nothing more beautiful as we journey along the pathway 
of life, amidst its flowers and thorns, than the loyalty and devotion of a 
friend. To him I am bound by hooks of steel. Ready and safe in counsel, 
true and steadfast in friendship, I would be unjust to him and false to 
myself should I fail to bear individual testimony to his fidelity, tenderness, 
courage and devotion. Our acquaintance extends over a number of years, 
during which there has been many vicissitudes. But amidst them all I have 
never known him to be false or wanting and never failed to find him near 
when his services were in demand. It mattered not whether these vicis- 
situdes were marked by sunshine or storm, victory or defeat, joy or sor- 
row, he has always proven the same true, generous, sympathizing friend. 
He has indeed a sunny disposition, for he is never without words of en- 
couragement. To him there is no cloud so dark that it has not a tinge 
of light; no grief for which there is not a consolation." 



Senator W. O. Bradley. 107 

The clay following his inauguration as Governor of Kentucky 
at Frankfort, in 1895, and while walking down Lewis street, ac- 
companied by his military staff, he pointed out to General Smith, a 
certain building and said. "In the sixties, when a page in the- 
Legislature, I boarded there and set my ambition to be Governor 
of Kentucky and this day marks the consummation of my efforts." 
This laudable ambition of Governor Bradley, when a boy is an en- 
couraging lesson to every young man, that he who sets his mark so- 
high, may attain the coveted prize, if actuated by a noble desire, 
and a concentrated effort to be qualified for and to hold with 
credit to himself and the best interests of the people, the honored 
position when gained. 

Governor Bradley's victory for Governor of Kentuckv was on- 
the first gold standard platform adopted in the LTnited States,. 
and was written by him. The Republican Xational Convention 
which nominated Hon. William McKinley, and successfully elected 
their candidates the year following, adopted the gold plank in its 
platform. 

As Colonel on the staff of Governor Bradley and afterwards- 
his Adjutant-General, and being with him almost daily during his- 
administration as Governor, General Smith has been able to accu- 
mulate much valuable information which he desires to give Senator 
Bradley's biographer, hence this article relating to the Governor 
will be brief and refer to events in which they were officially or 
otherwise associated. 

Governor Bradley commissioned General Smith on his military 
staff as Colonel December 16, 1895. The other members of the staff 
were: Gen. Dan R. Collier, Lancaster, Ky. ; Col. Frank Coles,. 
Ashland, Ky. ; Col. C. C. Mengel, Col. Henry Cohen, Col. Tom 
Landrum, Col. Ed. Cowan, Louisville; Col. Gus Uhlring, Newport;. 
Walter Forrester, Assistant Adjutant-General, Pewee Valley, Ky. 
The regular staff was supplemented by additional members includ- 
ing Hon. John W. Yerkes, and Governor Augustus E. Willson to 
attend the unveiling of the Kentucky monument at Chickamauga 
Park in 189S. Each officer had full dress, also fatigue suits. 

In an official capacity as Colonel or Adjutant-General, Gen.. 
Smith was with Governor Bradley on various occasions, to-wit : 

At the Governor's reception January 21, 189G, to the Legis- 
lature and State Officials at the Executive Mansion. 

Guest of the Loyal Legion at McCauley's Theater, afterwards - 
at the Pendennis Club, Louisville. 

The inspection of the First Regiment at Louisville. 

At the State G. A. R. meeting at Lexington, May 10, 1897. 



108 Wilbur R. Smith. 

An inspection of Camp Hamilton, September 10, 1898, by 
Governor Bradley. 

September 13, 1898, be made an address to Company A, Ken- 
tucky State Guards 

On September 15, 189S, lie arranged with General Castleman 
for the renting of Woodland for encampment of the First Regi- 
ment. 

At luncheon at the Executive Mansion September 16, 1898, 
with Major-General Breckinridge and Staff. 

At a dinner given at the Executive Mansion to Major-Generals 
Wilson and Breckinridge, Brigadier Generals Sanger, Waites. 
Wiley, and their Chief of Staff, C. Ho] den, Major Mothersill, Major 
Scott, Major Slocum, Colonel Bicldle and Lieutenant Desha Breck- 
inridge. 

Eeview of troops bv General Alger, Secretary of War, Septem- 
ber 21. 1898. 

On September 23, 1898, with Governor Bradley and other 
members of his staff in a review of a military pageant at Camp 
Hamilton. 

At review of ten thousand troops by Major-General Breckin- 
ridge at Camp Hamilton. September 28, 1898. 

In September, 1898, at State encampment of Camp Wilbur 
Smith, near Pewee Valley, be presented Company C of Lexington, 
with a gold medal as the best drilled company at the encampment. 

At luncheon given to Governor Bradley by Major-Genera! 
Breckinridge and other army officers at Camp Hamilton. 

With General Alger at inspection of Camp Weihl. 

Accompanied Governor Bradley and Staff to Chickamauga 
Park at the review of troops 

Inspection of Lexington Company under Captain C. C. Cal- 
houn. 

Accompanied Governor Bradley to the G. A. E. meeting at 
Somerset, I\v. 

General Smith's reception, on February 21, 1896, to Governor 
Bradley and other members of the Governor's Military Staff, is 
described by the Lexington Daily Leader, as follows : 



Senator W. O. Bradley. 109 

THE GOVERNOR OF KENTUCKY AND HIS STAFF AT THE PALA- 
TIAL HOME OF COL. W. R. SMITH WERE BANQUETED IN THE 
MOST SUMPTUOUS MANNER— A NOTABLE GATHERING OF 
KENTUCKIANS LAST NIGHT, IN WHICH THERE WAS AN UN- 
LIMITED FEAST OF REASON AND A FLOW OF SOUL. 

(Lexington Daily Decider, February 22d, lS9fi.) 

The reception given last night by Col. Wilbur R. Smith in honor of 
Governor Bradley, of Kentucky, was one of the most magnificent affairs ever 
witnessed in this city, famed for its entertainments and hospitalities. As 
early as half past seven o'clock the guests began to arrive, and by the 
hour of eight the parlors of Col. Smith's handsome residence on South 
Limestone were thronged with distinguished and representative men from 
all parts of the State. 

Governor Bradley and his staff with other Frankfort guests, were 
expected on the 5:45 train, but a telegram to Col. Smith late in the after- 
non announced that the Governor and his staff would be detained on legal 
business and could not come until the S:15 train. 

They were met with carriages and taken first to the Phoenix. After 
arranging their toilet the Governor and party again entered their carriages 
and proceeded to Col. Smith's home under escort of the Brown Light 
Infantry. 

It was beautifully prepared to receive them. A tropical profusion of 
palms and ferns decorated the spacious rooms, which were otherwise beau- 
tified with banks of hot-house flowers, and brilliantly lighted by magnificent 
chandeliers and clusters of candles. 

The Governor and his staff stood in the front parlors, Col. Smith next 
to his distinguished guest, to whom he presented the new arrivals. He was 
assisted in this hospitality by Hon. Leslie Combs, Judge Mat Walton, At- 
torney Dwight Harrison, nephew of Col. Smith, and Mr. Virgil McClure. 

During this ceremony, and throughout the evening, Trost's orchestra, 
concealed in the lower hall by a forest of ferns, discoursed sweetest music, 
into which at auspicious moments, were thrown the well known harmony 
of a national air. 

The national colors, also were carried out as far as possible in the 
decorations, and the "Father of His Country" was patriotically remembered 
in the souvenirs of the occasion. These consisted of a diminutive hatchet, 
to which was tied a ribbon in red, white and blue, a branch — not of the 
famous cherry tree itself — but of one of its immediate descendants, with two 
ripening cherries attached to the twig. 

The library was hung in the National colors, and over the whole 
house the floral decorations, furnished by Bell and Honaker, were of the 
most superb order. The second floor was also thrown open to the guests. 
The great number present in full evening dress, the Governor's staff in 
military regulation, and the festive beauty of the handsome house made 
one of the most brilliant social spectacles ever enjoyed by the guests who 
participated. 

Refreshments were served at 9 o'clock in the spacious salon dining 
room, the superbly decorated table seating fifty at a time. Pink and white 
were the prevailing colors in the table ornamentations, and here Washing- 
ton, on the eve of his birthday, was gracefully remembered. The viands 
were furnished by Empson, of Cincinnati, and Glenn, of this city, and 
among the delicacies the ices were conspicuous— all for their beauty and 
deliciousness, and many for their National significance. These last repeated 



110 Wilbur R. Smith. 

the tale cf the hatchet. They were moulded in the form cf hatchets, an.l 
cherry branches laden with the luscious fruit. Many of the ices were also 
in forms and colors of flowers. 

Governor Bradley proved to be a most genial and agreeable guest, and 
throughout the evening manifested his enjoyment and appreciation of the 
hospitality shown him and his staff. 

Among the gentlemen present from this city were: 

Mayor J. B. Simrall, Major H. C. McDowell, R. P. Stoll, Alex. Pearson. 
M. G. Durham, Senator C. J. Bronston, Judge Watts Parker, Rev. J. W. 
McGarvey, Dr. H. M. Skillman, Judge D. G. Falconer, T. T. Forman, General 
Samuel Hill, D. F. Frazee, J. H. Beauchamp, Judge Irving Halsey, J. R. 
Howard, Postmaster McChesney, J. Hull Davidson, Thos. H. Clay, G. A 
Delong, C. H. Stoll, Capt. W. H. May, Elder Mark Oollis, Rev. W. S. Fulton. 
J. B. Skinner, Major H. B. McClellan, Moses Kaufman, Capt. S'wigert 
TJ. S. A., Wellington Payne, Prof. A. Fairhurst, Rev. John Shackleford. 
Rogers Clay, C. S. Brent, Dr. David Bennett, Dr. Wm. Rodes, Judge S. G 
Sharp, Judge Soule Smith, Hon. W. G. Dunlap, Dr. L. B. Todd, James M 
'Graves, Prof. M. A. Scoville, Rev. I. S. McElroy, Dr. J. C. Carrick, Elder 
J. B. Jones, J A Curry, E. S. DeLong, R. H. Courtney, S. J. Roberts, Mai 
R. H. Hancock, Col. John O. Hodges, Dr. B. L. Coleman, Prof. R. N. Roark : 
Jos. G. Woolfoik, Louis Straus, Rev. W. T. Boiling, Dr. T. B. Wood, J. L 
"Watson, Rev. W. H. Felix, Ed Tipton, Prof. W. G. Conley, Howard Curry, 
Prof. W. A. Hart, John W. Berkley, Frank Gilmore, Daniei Runyon, Hiram 
G. Shaw, J. P. Headley, Prof. W. W. Smith J. R. Sharpe, J. H. Nelms, 
J. T. Tunis, O. H. Chenault, Dr. A. Smith Dabney, Prof. James White t 
Prof. B. C. Dewees, Wm. Richardson, S. C. Stopher, Prof. W. K. Routt, 
Den Cox, Rev. I. J. Speneer, J. N. Hawkins, Elliott Shanklin, Dr. Davis, 
S. Bassett, Edward Bassett, Professor Freeman, Virgil McClure, Ihomai 
Morgan, C. C. Patterson, Professor Porter, J. M. Graves, Joseph Overstreet, 
J. C. May, Will Milward, Prof. Davis, M. G. Thompson, J. M. Tanner, 
Samuel Hays, Thomas Martin, William K. Massie, Lee Loevenhart, T. L. 
Walker, J. E. McFarland, James W. Carroll, Major J. E. Allen, H. E. Innis.< 
W. B. Brock, F. C. Elkin. 

From a distance were present Judge H. C. Howard, Paris, Ky. ; Hon 
John W. Yerkes, Danville; Hon. Chas. C. Fox, Danville, Ky. ; Col. W. J. 
Wilmore, Nicholasville; Henry Waits, Midway; C. Alexander, Versailles; 
Hon. J. T. Hinton, Mayor of Paris; P. E. Parrish, Midway; J. B. McGinn, 
Versailles; Editor McClure, Louisa; Hon. B. M. Arnett, Nicholasville; Prof. 
Jas. Ferrier, Louisville; Senator W. W. Stephenson, and many others whose 
names cannot be recalled at this time. 

Regrets by letter and telegram were received from distinguished 
men from all parts of the country, among them being those of ex-Presi- 
dent Harrison, ex-Governor John Young Brown, Hon. John Sherman, Sena- 
tor J B. Foraker, Hon. H. Clay Evans, Hon J. C. S. Blackburn, Hon. 
G-odfrey Hunter, Cephas Brainerd, Hon. G. B. Todd. Mayor of Louisville; 
Judge Cyrus Newby, Judge Minor, W. H. Saddler, ex-President Business 
Educators' Association of America; Col. D. C. Smith, Illinois; Hon. Chauncey 
Depew, New York; Hon. W. H. Dulaney, Louisville; Gen. Eaton, Judge 
J. B. Black, the Judges of the Court of Appeals, and others. 




GOVERNOR BRADLEY AND MILITARY STAFF (189G). 

Standing, left to right — Col. C. C. Mengel, Col. Will Wright, Col. Gus 
Uhlring, Col. Ed Cowan, Col. Frank Coles, Col. Wilbur R. Smith, 
Lieut. Whipple, U. S. A., Col. Tom Landrum. 

Sitting, left to right — Col. Henry S Cohen, Col. (Dr.) Kimbley, Asst. Adjt. 
Gen. Forrester, Adjt. Gen. Collier, Gov. W. O. Bradley. 



112 Wilbur R. Smith. 

The following letter was received : 

Canton, Ohio, February 1, 1896. 
My dear Mr. Wilbur Smith: 

My feeling of personal regard for your distinguished Governor i* 
emphasized by the fact that our States are neighbors and that he has had 
the unique honor of being the only adherent of my political faith who 
has ever been elected to the responsible position of Governor of the Com- 
monwealth of Kentucky. 

I beg that you convey to Governor Bradley and the gentlemen of his 
staff my sincere felicitations and I also beg you to accept my thanks for 
the compliment of the invitation and my regrets for my inability to at- 
tend. Yours sincerely, 

William Mckinley. 

At the Centennial at Augusta, Kentucky, Governor Bradley 
was chief orator of the day. and was a guest, with General Smith, 
of the late Hon. Thornton Marshall, who greeted him in these 
words, "Little did I think, Governor Bradley, forty-five years ago 
when I was State Senator, and you a page, that you would honor 
me as a guest and as Kentucky's Chief Executive." 

It was September 4, 1S96, and immediately after Governor 
Bradley's address at Cleveland, Ohio, and in response to an invita- 
tion from Governor McKinley, the Republican nominee for Presi- 
dent, to visit him that General Smith accompanied Governor Brad- 
ley to Canton, Ohio. They were met at the depot by Governor 
McKinley and a reception committee and driven to the McKinley 
home which was decorated with flags and colored lights. After a 
cordial greeting by Governor McKinley he introduced Governor 
Bradley and General Smith to his wife and took Governor Bradley 
to his library for consultation. 

In describing Mrs. McKinley who was afterward the mistress 
of the White House, the first lady of the land, General Smith said: 

"In the parlor with lady friends, sat Mrs. McKinley, who, though an 
invalid, exhibited a graciousness of mien and a queenly presence rarely to 
be met; and withal not a trace of the commonplace exultation so often 
discerned in these to whom distinguished honors come. 

"Her shapely head and intellectual brow, with dark hair and soft, 
dark eyes was strikingly attractive, while her countenance grew instantly 
radiant at the sight of her husband who never forgets his smile of devoted 
affection for her. Their entire oneness is beautiful, and is knovn vvhere 
ever the husband and wife are known. 

"At last having need to consult the time for returning to Cleveland, 
she opened her watch and showed me the portrait of her husband on one 
side of the case, exclaiming, 'There is only one McKinley!' Then on the 
other side was a fine miniature of a lovely fair-haired babe, the only child 
of their marriage. Looking tenderly upon it the mother said softly, 'Our 
little three-year-old daughter — now passed away.' 



|<X)V. W. O. BRADLEY, GENERALS OF THE U. S. ARMY AND CHIEF OF STAFF 

At the Executive Mansion, Frankfort, Ky. 

Sitting, from left to right — -Brig. Gen. John A. Wiley; Maj. Gen. J. C. Breckenridge, Gov. 
W. O. Bradley; Maj. Gen. J. H. Wilson; Brig. Gen. J. P. Sanger. 

Standing, left to right — Col. Biddle; Maj. T.Mothersill; Lieut. Desha Breckenridge; Sec- 
retary F. Roberts; Col. Walter S. Forrester; Gen. Wilbur R. Smith; Maj. H. J. Slo- 
cum; Col. G. H. Holden; Maj. Hugh L. Scott, Superintendent West Point. 




114 Wilbur R. Smith. 

"Thus mingled the pathos of memory with the triumph and hope of 
the present. When adieus were spoken the visitors bore away charming 
reminiscences of the brief audience, and went back to Cleveland where they 
had also been met by a delegation of the most prominent citizens and dig- 
nitaries and escorted to their hotel. Altogether it was a pleasant episode. 

On November 4, 1896, he accepted an invitation to accom- 
pany Governor Bradley and the Commercial Club and Board of 
Trade of Louisville to the Atlanta Exposition, and attend with him 
the reception of the Governor of Georgia to the Governors of Mas- 
sachusetts, Rhode Island, Maryland and Kentucky, who were visit- 
ing the Exposition. Others who accompanied him were General 
Castleman, Colonels Landrum, Mengel and Forrester. 

He also accompanied the Governor to Nashville, Tennessee, 
as guests of the Governor of that State, and his visit to the Cen- 
tennial and International Exposition in 189? : and to Cleveland 
and Cincinnati, to Charleston, W .Va., at the Republican State 
convention of West Virginia, at which time he met Governor Mc- 
Corkle. Also to the National Republican Convention in St. Louis, 
Mo. ; the christening of the Battleship Kentucky, and on a visit 
to the Governor of Virginia, and to the Republican National Con- 
vention at Philadelphia and to his induction as United States 
Senator. 

Keutuckians feel proud of the majestic record the IT. S. Battle- 
ship "Kentucky" has made in foreign waters. This ship, costing over 
a million dollars, was christened at Newport News, Virginia, on 
March 24, 1898, by Miss Christine Bradley, the Governor's daugh- 
ter, who was accompanied by the Governor and staff. She was 
appointed Sponsor by Secretary Long of the Navy. Miss Bradley 
inaugurated a new form of christening. Instead of champagne she 
used water from the spring of Abraham Lincoln's old Kentucky 
home. Several 'thousand people witnessed, the christening. The 
party proceeded to the bow of the "Kentucky" and Miss Bradley 
broke a cut glass bottle of water from the old Lincoln farm in 
Kentucky, saying, "I christen thee, 'Kentucky/ " 

Old Bourbon was used, too. Then as this great war ship 
started down the way, a number of bottles were hurled against 
its sides by those who opposed the water christening. Water in 
bottles from the spring of the .Jefferson Davis farm in Kentucky 
was also smashed on the sides of the vessel. The launching was 
successful in every particular. 

After the ceremonies, the invited guests and distinguished 
visitors boarded the steamer, Newport News, and proceeded to Old 
Point Comfort, where at the Chamberlain Hotel, the shipyard of- 
ficials tendered a magnificent banquet. 




CHRISTENING OP THE BATTLE SHIP "KENTUCKY" 



At Newport News, Va., March 2 4, 189 8. 



In the rear is Miss Bradley (now Mrs. South), also Governor Tyler, 
of Virginia, and Governor Bradley and Staff, of Kentucky. To the right 
of Miss Bradley is Mrs. General Pickett, of Virginia. 

Covers were laid for six hundred persons, the affair being en- 
tirely informal. Anions; the toasts responded to were, "Kentucky," 
by Governor Bradlejr, and "Virginia,'* by Governor Tyler. Gov- 
ernor Bradley paid the old Commonwealth of Kentucky an eloquent 
tribute, his response to the toast being as follows: 



1 1 6 Wilbur E. Smith. 

GOVERNOR BRADLEY'S TRIBUTE TO KENTUCKY 

"Which Kentucky? 

"It is the Kentucky whose people with one acclaim return thanks to 
the distinguished secretary of the Navy for the splendid compliment paid 
them today, and to the ship builders of the ship for their kind and generous 
courtesy and hospitality. 

It is the Kentucky whose name is written indelibly upon every chapter 
of the Nation's history since her admission into the sisterhood of States. 

"It is the Kentucky whose brave, bold pioneers rescued the wilder- 
ness from the savage and made it blossom as the rose. 

"It is the Kentucky, the eloquence of whose Clay, Crittenden, Marshall 
and Breckinridge shook the halls, of Congress and stirred the hearts of the 
people on the hustings. 

"It is the Kentucky of waving grass, crystal streams and blended 
mountain top and sky and chivalrous men and beautiful women. 

"It is the Kentucky whose gallant soldiers have won the fame upon 
the ocean, and christened heathen lands with their precious blood. 

"It is the Kentucky whose great heart beats with sympathy in every 
land, whose sons hope and pray for recognition of the independence oi suf- 
fering and starving Cuba, such as will send a thrill of joy to the hearts of 
struggling patriots and shake the palace of Madrid. 

"Of this Kentucky I cannot fittingly speak in the short time allotted. 
But it is the other Kentucky that calls for speech and poetry and song, 
the "Kentucky"' which today gave its first kiss to the sea. There is no 
better ship; there could be no better name. 

"When fully manned and equipped she starts on her mission we will 
exclaim, 'God bless Kentucky on the land; God speed and protect Kentucky 
on the sea.' 

"No ship has ever been christened as it has been. Not according to 
the custom of pirate viking, clad with the skins of wild beasts, but with 
sparkling water from the spring which quenched the infant thirst of him 
who saved our country from destruction. And when the great ship majes- 
tically moves to the glorious destiny which is in store for it, it will be sanc- 
tified by the prayers of more Christian women than all the others that have 
moved on the face of the waters. 

"Whether under calm and cloudless skies, or struggling with tempest 
and wave, whether in peace or war, there shall hover, over it, not the 
spirit of alcohol, which has destroyed so many lives, desolated so many 
homes, and caused the shedding of so much blood and so many tears, bur 
the spirit of Kentucky's noblest son, the grandest man in all the tide of time, 
symbolized by God's gift to man that which causes the earth to yield its 
fruits and harvests, which cleanses and purifies, which quenches the thirst 
of the living and relieves the parched lips of the wounded and dying. 

"Purity and patriotism have today been blended in the christening 
of this ship, which I predict will win more fame, gather more laurels and 
accomplish more gocd, than any that has ever swept the seas. 

"And in parting with the majestic vessel, Kentuckians with one 
voice exclaimed: 

In spite of rock and tempest's roar, 

In spite of false lights on the shore, 

Sail on, nor fear to breast the sea, 

Our hearts, our hopes ore still with thee, 

Our hearts, our hopes, our prayers and tears, 

Our fa.ith triumphant o'er our fears, 

Are all with thee, are all with thee. 



Senator W. 0. Bradley. 117 

On October 29th, 1898, Gen. Smith met Maj. Helburn, Presi- 
dent of the Board of Survey of old Kentucky proper, at the Phoenix 
Hotel. 

On October 23d, 1898, he made oat a new muster roll of Com- 
pany M. (Georgetown) which had been lost, and sent it by mes- 
senger to Col. E. H. Gaither. 

He was a guest at a banquet' to' Company D at the Phoenix 
Hotel. 

January 2nd, 1899, was a guest at the 100th Anniversary of 
Transylvania University with Governor Bradley and staff. 

The stirring scenes in Lexington in 1898, which are referred 
to more fully in another chapter, are now a matter of history. The 
mobilization of the troops nearby from Kentucky and of thousands 
of other troops from many States, the marching of troops, bands 
playing, huzzahslgreeting each regiment in marching through Main 
street to Camp Hamilton or to Camp Weihl, appealed most success- 
fully to General Smith's students to enlist. Many students, in 
answer to their /country's call, closed their books and went direct 
to a recruiting officer and enlisted. It was thought at one time his 
College would have to be closed by patriotic enlistment fever that 
permeated the student body. It was computed that scores of his 
students enlisted in the Spanish- American War and from a print 
we refer to the following : 

Capt- George Duncan Private Howard. 4th Ky. 

Maj. Embry Allen Herbert Ashcraft, 4th Ky. 

Lieut. John Milward T. H. Adkins, 2d Kv. 

Lieut. Joseph Simcox, 3d Ky. T. W. Guilders, 2d Ky. 

Lieut. A. G. Sharpley, 3d Ky. A. M. Hayden, 2d Ky. 
J. A. Simpson, 1st Lieut 4th Kv. Chester Inskeep, Colorado 

John Noble, Sergeant, 4th Ky. 0. E. McKay, 2d Ivy. 
Private Young of Illinois, 2d Ivy. 

General Smith also assisted Adjutant-General Han E. Collier 
in his work and afterwards succeeded him as Adjutant-General, 
as explained in the following letter : 




GEN. D. K. COLLIER and COL. SMITH (standing) 

Whom Col. Wilbur R. Smith succeeded as Adjutant General 
of Kentucky (1898). 



GENERAL COLLIER'S RESIGNATION READS AS FOLLOWS 

ADJUTANT GENERAL'S OFFICE 
FRANKFORT. KY. 



September 7, 1898. 
Governor W. O. Bradley: 

Circumstances over which I have no control, necessitate my absence 
from this office, as matters now appear, for an indefinite length of time. 
I am unwilling to hold the office and draw a salary while I am doing 
nothing in return for the State. As you are aware, owing to the mustering 
out of the soldiers, there is a press of business at the Adjutant-General's 
Office and some one should be appointed to transact it. Under the cir- 
cumstances I hereby tender by resignation, assuring you of my gratitude 
for the appointment and my profound respect and regard for you personally 
and officially. Yours truly, 

D. R. COLLIER. 



Senator W. 0. Bradley. 119 

General Smith was appointed Adjutant-General of Kentucky 
September 8, 1898., his Commission reading as follows: 

IN THE NAME AND BY AUTHORITY OF THE COMMONWEALTH OF 

KENTUCKY, WILLIAM O. BRADLEY GOVERNOR 

OF SAID COMMONWEALTH. 

TO ALL WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME, GREETING: 

Know ye that Wilbur R. Smith having - been duly appointed Adjutant- 
General of the State of Kentucky; I hereby invest him with full power and 
authority to execute and discharge the duties of said office according to law 
and to have and to hold the same with all the rights and emoluments 
thereunto legally appertaining for and during the term prescribed by law. 

In testimony whereof I have caused these letters to be made patent 
and the seal of the Commonwealth to be hereunto affixed. Done at Frank- 
fort, Kentucky, the 8th day of September in the year of our Lord, one 
thousand eight hundred and ninety-eight, and the one hundred and seventh 
year of our Commonwealth. 

WILLIAM O. BRADLEY, 

By the Governor. 
CHAS. FINLEY, 

Secretary of State. 
By E. S. WOOD, 

Asst. Secretary of State. 

The following order I\To. 3, was sent to the officers of the 
State Militia: 

GENERAL ORDERS NO. 3. 

COMMONWEALTH OF KENTUCKY 

Office of 

ADJUTANT- GENERAL 

FRANKFORT, KY„ September S, 189S. 
Colonel Wilbur R. Smith, Aid to the Governor, having been appointed 
and Commissioned as Adjutant-General to succeed General Dan R. Collier, 
resigned, he will at once assume command of the Kentucky State Guard. 
Brigadier General Smith will be obeyed and respected accordingly and thi« 
order will be promulgated. 

By Command of GOVERNOR BRADLEY. 

WALTER FORRESTER, 

Asst. and Acting Adjt. -General. 




CAMP WILBUR SMITH AT PEWEE VALLEY, KY. (1898). 

Officers' Tent 



At Target Practice with Galling Gun. 



Artillery Sauad. 



Camp Wiibnh Smith, near Pewee Valley, Ky., named in honor of the 
General, in the fall of IS 9 8, and when the soldier boys were almost worn 
out from target practice, sham battles, etc., witnessed by the crowd of 
spectators, including students from a near-by Female College, the signal 
for dinner was given, after which General (Smith gave orders to break 
ranks and smoke one of his Havana cigars — these and other courtesies the 
boys always appreciated and were all the more willing to render real 
service . 




Secretary of War, General 
Alger, and General J. C. 
Breckinridge standing in 
front of Governor Bradley 
and General Smith. 



General Alger, Governor 
Bradley and General Smith 
leaving camp for city. 



Governor Bradley deliver- 
ing commissions to officers 
of the Third Regiment of 
Kentucky. 



SCENE AT CAMP HAMILTON, NEAR LEXINGTON, KY. 

(September, 1898). 
(From camp snap-shots by McClure, Newspaper Syndicate Correspondent) 




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122 Wilbur R. Smith. 

Congratulatory letters and telegrams were received on his ap- 
pointment from old friends from many States, including that from 
Major George B. Duncan, Ponce, Porto Rico. 

General Smith issued the Governor's order for the State G-uard 
to go into camp at a point three miles from Pewee Valley. It 
was named Camp Wilbur Smith, in compliment to the Adjutant- 
General. Assistant Adjutant-General Forrester, commander, 
wired the following invitation to General Smith, who was attend- 
ing a meeting of the old Mexican War Veterans : 

Pewee Valley, Ky., September 25, 1898. 

Wilbur R. Smith, Adjt. -General, 

Care Mexican War Veterans' Association, 
Louisville, Ky. 

Forrester Guards and Bradley Guards, now in Camp Wilbur Smith. 
extend invitation to Governor and yourself to visit us. 

WALTER FORRESTER, 

Colonel Commanding'. 

Colonel Forrester and aides met at the depot and were accom- 
panied by General Smith to the grove where the Pewee Valley and 
Lexington Companies received them at a given point and were es- 
corted to the splendid grounds by Colonel Forrester to witness 
drills, maneuvers, target practice and sham battles. 

Nearly one thousand spectators, including one hundred col- 
lege girls, sang their college songs, and bedecked the officers 
with college colors of blue and buff. 

Considering that these soldiers were new recruits after nearly 
four thousand had gone to the front, their drills and maneuvers 
were considered excellent. 

On September 28, 1898, Capt. Cassidy's Company was awarded 
the gold medal given by General Smith for best drilled men. 

The cost of this encampment for about ten days was about 
one thousand dollars. At this time petitions Avere filed with 
County Judges of Pulaski and other counties for the required 
number of young and able-bodied men of character 10 organize 
a company. 

These home protectors, dispersing mobs, and holding out the 
strong arm of defenders of the law, were young men of the best 
families, and their work was never fully appreciated. Several 
companies were ordered to be held in readiness to visit different 
localities to suppress mob violence. 

Annually our State militia received about ten thousand dol- 
lars from the National Government for necessary articles and 
equipment and from the State about seven thousand dollars. 



Senator W. 0. Bradley. 123 

During the mobilization of the Spanish- American troops, it 
was General Smith's pleasure, when twenty thousand soldiers were 
encamped east and west of Lexington to extend such courtesies to 
the different commanders as his official position suggested. He 
entertained and in return was entertained by many officers. At a 
superb banquet given October 23, 1898, by Governor Bradley to 
Major General Wilson, Generals Breckinridge, Sanger, Wiley and 
others, a picture was taken of the group. Toasts were given by 
Governor Bradley. General Smith also had the pleasure of being 
entertained by Generals Wilson and Sanger at Matanzas, Cuba, 
who recalled their delightful stay in Kentucky. 

L. Dixon of Frankfort, a noble young man who was General 
Smith's clerk, was stricken with typhoid fever and died. He was 
a most upright and loyal young man and his death saddened all 
who knew him. 

General Smith secured reports from the Adjutant-Generals of 
the different States, which enabled him by comparison and stucty, to 
formulate important matters for the improvement of the State 
Guard, which would have been brought before the Legislature had 
he not resigned his office. 

General Smith called on President McKinley and Senator 
Mark Hanna at the National Capital in 1898, partly upon the 
initiative of political friends in Kentucky and the passive consent 
of Governor Bradley. The object of his visit being to secure 
their assistance in bringing together harmoniously the factional 
leaders of the Eepublican partv in Kentucky in order to continue 
in control the partv then in power. 

Senator Hanna's message to Governor Bradley to call an 
extra session of the Legislature and elect a United States Senator 
was interpreted by the Governor as "bossism" and a reflection as 
to his dereliction of duty. A retort of the Governor to Senator 
Hanna caused a breach between him and the National adminis- 
tration in which strong sides were taken in Kentucky as "Bradley" 
versus "Administration" forces and was causing a split in the 
party. 

General Smith's visit was prefaced by a letter from his friend. 
General Dan Evan, of Columbus, Ohio, to Senator Hanna, which 
not onlv resulted in securing the object sought, but also the plan. 
Senator Hanna stated that his pre-convention promise to certain 
Kentuckians must be carried out faithfully. By the Senator's 
request and the time arranged, he saw President McKinley at the 
White House, who concurred in Mr. Hanna's endorsement, adding 
"See Senator Deboe as a matter of Senatorial courtesy," although 
he desired to please Governor Bradley, and the Governor's pref- 



124 Wilbur R. Smith. 

erenee of Col. John Yerkes for Governor would please him very 
much. Senator Deboe would not concur in Governor Bardley's 
wish, which was a political blunder on the part of the Senator. 

By invitation, General Smith called on Col. Yerkes at hi? 
home in Danville, Kentucky, and made known the wishes of 
President McKinley and Governor Bradley, that he run for Gov- 
ernor of Kentucky, but Mr. Yerkes declined the opportunity and 
thereby he, too, made a mistake. 

Much, effort was put forth at the Republican State Conven- 
tion held at the Chautauqua amphitheater, Lexington, in 1900, to 
have Governor Bradley and his friends enlist in the interest of 
Attorney-General Taylor's candidacy for the nomination for Gov- 
ernor. Two hours before the convention assembled, Judge Z. T. 
Morrow and General Dan R. Collier called at General Smith's 
office and stated that a proposition was made for Bradley and his 
friends to endorse Taylor. 

The plan was to have Governor Bradley appear on the con- 
vention platform and make a speech while the Committee on Reso 
lutions were in conference, endorsing any ticket put up, and thar 
Bradley could place his friends on the rest of the ticket, suggesting 
Edward Morrow as Attorney-General, General Collier as State 
Auditor and General Smith as State Treasurer. General Smith 
telephoned Governor Bradley the proposition from his private of- 
fice, and in reply +o Governor Bradley'? inquiry as to his .judg- 
ment, General Smith told him he was against the proposition and 
that he would not take part in selecting his political "pall-bearers" 
which he thought it would do and which view was concurred in 
by Governor Bradley. The result of the campaign and the elec- 
tion of Governor Taylor is now a matter of history. 

General Russell A. Alger, Secretary of War, on September 20, 
1898, was met at the depot in Lexington by Maj. H. C. McDowell, 
Hon. Richard Stoll and Gen. Smith and accompanied the Secre- 
tary and his staff to a review at Camp Hamilton and inspected 
the hospital and a portion of the camp. An escort consisted of 
the Second Brigade. General Alger mounted a horse, though a 
stand had. been erected for his use, and directed the troops. The 
review began about 9 :40 A. M., being different from Monday's 
review in that the troops in passing consumed about one-half the 
usual time. The brigades passed in order of seniority. 

After the troops had passed, the large crowd assembled 
around the reviewing stand to greet Secretary Alger. A speech 
was asked for and the Secretary responded as follows: "As you 
know," said he, "I have come to Camp Hamilton to inspect the 
condition of the troops now quartered here, and in visiting the 



Senator W. 0. Bradley. 125 

Bluegrass of Kentucky, I am aware that I have come to the most 
beautiful spot on earth/ 5 (Cheers'). 

"I wish to conga rtulate Gen. Breckinridge and Gen. Sanger 
upon the excellent; condition of the troops under them in the Third 
Division. I congratulate Gen. Sanger again upon his splendid 
command, and the people of this region on their beautiful country, 
and I want them to treat the soldiers as brothers. Our soldiers 
are not babies, but men." 

The review was followed bv luncheon at Gen. Breckinridge's 
headquarters at Camp Hamilton, at which were present Secretary 
Alger, Gen. Breckinridge and staff, Gen. Sanger and staff, Gen. 
Waites, Governor Bradley, the Colonels of the different regiments 
in camp, Lieut. Whipple, who acted as First Aide to Secretary 
Alger during his stay in Lexington. Col. W. C. P. Breckinridge, 
Col. W. R. Smith, Major McDowell, as well as a number of ladies, 
were present. 

After a brief visit to Gen. Sanger's quarters, the party return- 
ed to headquarters, where luncheon was served. 

GEN". W. R. SMITH MAKES SOME IMPORTANT SUGGES- 
TIONS CONCERNING STATE GUARDS. 

(Herald, September, 1S98). 

Adjutant-General Wilbur R. Smith, in the course of an inter- 
view makes some suggestions concerning the Kentucky State Guard 
and its Officers. General Smith said : 

"I am going to resign as Adjutant-General as soon as T wind up odds 
and ends. I am now engaged in shaping up some suggestions which, as 
I am going to retire, 1 feel that T can afford to make. There should be 
more inducements held out to members of the State Guard in order to bring 
it up to a higher degree of efficiency. The Adjutant-General should be ap- 
pointed for life, or during good behavior, as in the regular Army, and the 
State organization should be entirely removed from politics. In this way, 
Kentucky's Standing Army can be made to rank with Massachusetts, 
Georgia and other States which spend but little money but outrank us in 
soldierly efficiency." 

General Smith said he had received applications for the formation of 
new military companies at Barbourville and Somerset and that arrange- 
ments are in progress for the organization of one or more companies at 
Louisville. The Barbourville company will be headed by Capt. Jeff Prather, 
late of Troop B, First Kentucky Cavalry. 

General Smith's resignation as Adjutant-General was neces- 
sitated by the fact that the reorganization of the State troops would 
compel the Adjutant-General to visit every company in the State; 
muster out some of the new companies, and muster in the old, 
returned veterans from the Spanish-American War, or, through 



126 



Wilbur JX. Smith, 



fine diplomacy without causing friction, blend the best of the old 
and new into one company. 

This state of affairs he saw would compel him to be away for 
several months and from the supervision of his college, which he 
had labored for twenty -three years to build up. This fact, with a 
belief, too, that another person wanted his place as President of 




EIGHT LEGISLATORS OF KENTUCKY, 1908 SESSION, FORMER 
PUPILS OF WILBUR R. SMITH. 



Senator W. 0. Bradley. 127 

the Commercial College of Kentucky University, influenced him to 
send in his resignation to the Governor . His letter to the Governor 
with acceptance is appended : 

Office of 
AD JUT ANT - GENERAL 

Frankfort, Ky., October 20, 1898. 
Governor W. O. Bradley, 

Frankfort, Ky. 
Dear Governor: 

On the acceptance of the appointment of Adjutant- 
General of Kentucky, I was under the impression that the 
duties of that office would require only the afternoon of 
each day. The fore-noon I had expected to devote to 
my duties at Lexington as President of the Commercial 
College of Kentucky University, also the bank and other 
official institutions of which I am an officer. Since the recent 
increase in the business of the Adjutant-General' g office, 
caused by the preparation for the reorganization of the 
State militia, which will follow the mustering out of the 
several companies of the United States volunteers, I now 
see that to do justice to the office of Adjutant-General, one 
should devote his whole time to that office, which I cannot 
afford to do. 

I therefore tender your Excellency my resignation as 
Adjutant-General of Kentucky, to take effect as soon as you 
can appoint my successor. 

Wishing you the continued high respect that has 
marked your administration, ar,d with cordal good will, 
I remain, • Sincerely, 

WILBUR R. SMITH 



EXECUTIVE OFFICE 

Frankfort, Ky., October 27, 1898. 
General Wilbur R. Smith. 

My dear Sir: — Your resignation is received and ac- 
cepted with regrets. During the time you have been in 
office you have discharged every duty with signal ability. 

Apprising you of my most profound frendship, I re- 
main, Your friend, 

W. O BRADLEY 



STATE GUARDS REGRET SMITH'S PROBABLE RESIGNATION 

(Lexington Sunday Leader) 
A report came from Frankfort that Governor Bradley 
is not inclined to accept General Smith's resignation should 
he hand it in. Capt. Cassidy and several of the home Com- 
pany called on the General Saturday to express their regrets 



128 WiiBUB R. Smith. 

that his business interests here will, in all probability, cause 
the State to lose his services, which the soldiers, as well as 
the State officers hare so highly endorsed. He assured the 
soldiers that whatever step he might take, he will at all times 
stand by them. 

Gen. Smith is very popular with the soldiers through- 
out the State, and during his incumbency in office he has done 
much hard work. For three years he was Colonel on the 
Governor's staff, and the services he rendered the State in 
the mobilization of the four Kentucky regiments here, to- 
gether wtih his visits to the State encampments, and in- 
spection of companes has won for him the confidence and 
esteem of thousands of soldier boys. Gen. Smith is the 
youngest Adjutant-General the State has ever had and the 
first one from Lexington, and the first one a native of an- 
other State. 



During- the turbulent session of the Kentucky Legislature of 
189S and 1899= a successor to Hon, Joseph C. S. Blackburn, was 
to be elected. Only two votes were needed on joint ballot to elect 
a Republican. 

At one of the daily conferences General Smith suggested the 
name of R. P. Stoll as the person who could secure the votes 
necessary to elect him as Senator. Governor Bard ley remarked 
that Mr. Stoll was his friend and for General Smith to see him 
and. to have him announce his candidacy. General Smith had a 
conference with Mr. Stoll at the Capitol Hotel and delivered Gov- 
ernor Bradley's message. Mr. Stoll preferred to wait till that 
night's caucus and. then see if there was a chance for him but 
his usual modesty and this procrastination lost him the Senatorship. 

On the evening train of the day referred to, Judge Walter 
Evans, Mayor Todd and others arrived from Louisville frightened 
the Hunter men .^o that they made DeBoe, who was a member of 
the Legislature, the Republican nominee for United States Senator. 

Six hours before the caucus that nominated Mr. DeBoe, and 
a few minutes before he saw Mr. Stoll. General Smith was at 
luncheon at the Capitol Hotel when Mr. DeBoe took his seat 
beside him and. said that Capt. Steve Sharpe desired him to with- 
draw his application for United States Marshal, in his interest 
and said, "I will be United States Marshal." The next day he 
was the United States Senator -elect. 



Senator W O. Bradley. 129 

BRADLEY ELECTED EXITED STATES SENATOR. 

Before the election of Governor in 1907. in an interview from 
General Smith, which appeared in the. Commercial-Tribune, in 
which he prophesied that Augustus E. Willson, Republican nominee 
for Governor, would be elected, and Governor Bradley, United 
States Senator, both of which came to pass, he based that prophecy 
on the disaffection in the Democratic ranks, political rivalry and the 
personal friendship of thousands of Democrats for Governor Brad- 
ley. 

After Governor Bradley's election as United States Senator, 
it was ascertained that eight of General Smith's former students 
were members of that Legislature, and a number of former patrons 
and that they were on the most important committees and that 
the General visited Erankfort daily. 

Said one who knows him well, "Whether the General went 
over his list of those nearlv 5,000 former students who are voters 
in Kentucky to help select some of the men for that particular 
session of the Legislature or not, T cannot say, but I do believe 
he is one of the most successful men I ever saw, either as a col- 
lege president, financier, officer or a politician. He is surely a 
good man to have as a friend.''" 

"I know the General had the unbounded confidence of Gov- 
ernor Bradley as to ability and diplomacy for during his adminis- 
tration he not Only accompanied the Governor on many of his visits 
to Governors of other States, and at State and National conven- 
tions, but also represented him in political and other confer- 




1. Harvesting" Sugar Cane. 

2. City and Harbor of Matauzas, Cuba- 

3. City of Havana. Population 200,000. Principal center of commerce in 
the West lndes. 

4. At boat landing, Havana, Cuba. 

5. Avenue of palms — Hight nearly 100 feet. 

6. Cocoanut Tree — Has a cylindrical stem one and one -half feet in diam- 
eter and from 60 to 90 feet high, with a cluster of leaves at top 100 
feet in length. 



For Frfedom of Cuba. 131 



CHAPTER VII. 

FOE FEEEDOM OF CUBA. 

(Spanish-American War) 

Promoter of the first mass meeting in the United States to protest against 
Spanish tyranny over Cuba and advocated her freedom. Resolutions. 
Collecting Funds for Cuban patriots. Securing the mobilization of 
State troops at Lexington. Requests Governor Bradley for a Com- 
mission to raise a regiment, which he refuses to grant, but appoints 
him Adjutant -General of Kentucky. Sees skeleton of the ill-fated 
Man-of-War Maine off the coast of Cuba. Visits Cuba, strolls in the 
dungeons of Morro Castle. At Castle Atares where Lieutenant Crit- 
tenden was shot. Matanzas. Guest of Third Kentucky Regiment. 
Attends Reception. Meets General Gomez and other celebrities, 
Five years afterward a Spanish cannon was presented to the State 
University of Kentucky. Listens to an address by Senator Cushman 
K. Davis, one of the Peace Commissioners who met, negotiated and 
concluded a treaty of peace between the United States and Spain. 



HOX. ALFEED N". YOUNG, United States Consul to Santiago 
de Cuba, when on a visit to General Smith's native home, 
Higginsport, Ohio, in 1876, informed young Smith of the 
summary execution by Spanish authorities of fifty -three iimerican 
subjects on the public square at Santiago de Cuba in 1873, who were 
captured on the Yirginins and which was one of the early causes of 
the war with Spain. This narrative enlisted General Smith's sym- 
pathy in the cause of Cuba's freedom from the Spanish yoke of 
tyranny. He was one of the promoters of the mass meeting held at 
the Court House in Lexington, December 14, 1897, to endorse 
Cuba's freedom. After he called the meeting to order, Mayor Sim- 
rail presided. This was the first meeting in the United States to 
advocate Cuba's freedom and independence. 

He was one of several who made short addresses favoring the 
intervention of the United States in behalf of Cuba. Other speak- 
ers were ex-Mayor Davidson, J. H. JNTelms, now an Episcopal min- 
ister at Washington, D. C. ; Hon. Wood G. Dunlap, Senator Peter- 
man, Capt. Longmire, and Alexander Williamson, a Mexican War 
veteran, aged seventy-six years. During the progress of the meet- 
ing the following resolutions prepared by a committee consisting 
of General Smith and ex-Mayor Davidson were adopted : 



132 Wilbur R. Smith. 

RESOLVED, First, That Cuba must be free. 

RESOLVED, Second, That the United States, as her nearest neighbor 
should help to obtain that freedom. 

RESOLVED, Third, That if such friendly offers of arbitration and 
adjustment as have and may be suggested by the United States Govern- 
ment should be ignored, then as a neighbor and the most advanced nation 
on earth, our Government should demand and require a cessation of human 
butchery and the freedom of our meek and struggling neighbor. 

These resolutions were sent to Thomas Estrada Palma, a 
Cuban patriot exile and teacher for many years of Cubans and 
Spaniards, then Delegate and Minister Plenipotentiary de Cuba, 
who was afterwards first President of Cuba. A copy of these reso- 
lutions was also sent to the United States Congress. The or- 
ganization was then made permanent. 

After the meeting a State militiaman burned a Spanish 
flag on the Court House steps amid much enthusiasm. Tt has 
been said that General Smith assisted in collecting funds for 
the Cuban patriots and was in correspondence with Minister 
Thomas Estrada Palma. 

It was less than six years after this meeting that there was 
presented to the City of Lexington, a Spanish cannon captured by 
the United States Government. This was done through the rec- 
ommendation of Governor Bradley, as it was thought that this 
city was a fit place to mount a trophy of American valor and 
where not only Kentucky State tropps weic mobilized at the call 
of the Government, but also it was here that thousands of troops 
were encamped preparatory to moving to the Gulf and embarking 
for Cuban soil in the war against Spain. 

Prior to the Government's intervention and call for troops, 
General Smith wrote the following letter, which is self-explanatory : 

December 18 
Secretary of "War, 

Washington, D. C. 
Sir: Will you please inform me if there is any law 
against the raising of funds, or equipping a company for 
the purpose of going to Cuba and fighting for the freedom 
of that country. Respectfully, 

WILBUR R. SMITH. . 

*On May 19.1903, Mayor H. T. Duncan in behalf of the city formally 
and with appropriate ceremonies presented to the State College of Ken- 
tucky this cannon and by special invitation of President James K. Pat- 
terson, Gen. Smith was present. 

NOTE — The Spanish War was declared April 21, 1898 and began May 
1, 1S9S, at Manila Bay, concluded August 13, 1898, by capitulation of City 
of Manila. Official close was April 11, 1899. 



For Freedom of Cuba. 133 

Beply — On the reverse side of this letter and dated De- 
cember 2 2d : 

I recommend your attention be invited to Section 
5282 or 52S6 of the Revised Statutes of the United States, 
2d Edition, 1878. G. NORMAN LIEBER, 

Judge Advocate General. 

Following announcement in the press that General Smith 
was arranging to raise a regiment, letters came to him from men 
from different sections of the country proffering their services. 

General Smith was very anxious to go as a private, or officer, 
at the first call of the Government for troops, and gained per- 
mission from President Loos of Kentucky University, with which 
he was connected, for an indefinite leave of absence; also ar- 
ranged his affairs in anticipation of an early departure. He had 
his life insurance policy modified so he could leave the States. He 
had two conferences with Governor Bradley and Adj. Gen. Collier, 
soliciting a commission. He also had conferences with those who 
would go with him and be under his command. 

Governor Bradley told him his services were needed, by ihe 
State in another way. and therefore he remained at home. He 
assisted in mobilizing the State troops and equipping them, and 
this was afterwards followed by his appointment as Adjutant- 
General of the State. 

Partially through the influence of General Smith, the mobi- 
lization of State troops at Lexington during the Spanish-American 
War occurred in this way : 

Secretary of War Alger first designated Louisville as the piece 
for mobilization of the State troops of Kentucky. Gen. Smith had 
a conference with Governor Bradley, and stated that Lexington 
was the most geographically accessible, and being a railroad, center, 
was best suited for the purpose, and it could be done at less expense 
than in any other city in the State. He promised the Governor that 
Lexington, through a committee of business men, would raise two 
thousand dollars for securing grounds and supplying the troops 
with water and tents. The Governor immediately telegraphed Sec- 
retary Alger that he designated Lexington instead of Louisville. 
This brought thousands of Kentucky troops to Lexington and vicin- 
ity and at one time nearly twenty thousand troops were encamped 
in the beautiful Bluegrass country bordering Lexington and gave 
Lexington a very animated appearance during the soldiers' sojourn. 
Besides the honor and pleasure of having the soldiers here it was 
estimated that nearly one million dollars was distributed in Lex- 
ington during the soldiers' stay here which saved several busi- 
ness houses from bankruptcy. 



GEN. SMITH VISITS CUBA FEBRUARY, 1899. 




Morro Castle, Cuba. 



General Maximo Gomez Plaza de Armas 

Commander in Chief of the Where he met Gen. Gomez. 
Cuban Army. 



Morro Cast le, Havana. 

This strong fortress commands the entrance to the harbor and is an object of great 
interest to the visitor, not merely on account of the history connected with it, but 
by reason of the magnificent view of sea and land from its battlements. Here have 
been confined many prisoners of war captured by the 'Spanish during Cuban insurrections. 

General Maximo Gomez. 

This is the portrait of the once renowned Commander in Chief of the Cuban Army. He 
comes from a distinguished family, to which frequent reference is made in Spanish his- 
tory. His great ability as a general was equalled by his ardent devotion to the cause of 
Cuban freedom. 

Palace of the Captain General, Havana, Occupied by Gen. Gomez. 

This polatial structure is on one side of the public square, known as Plaza de Armas. 
It is ornamented with gardens of tropical plants and the walls inside are decorated with 
paintings, illustrating events in Spanish history. Here the various Captain Generals 
have had their residence. The Spanish flag once could be seen constantly floating from 
the tower. 




As Gen. Smith saw Major Bryant at His Tent 
near Matansas, Cuba. 



For Freedom of Cuba. 135 

In reference to his visit to Cuba, General Smith stated that 
on leaving his family at St. Petersburg, Fla., in March, 1899, 
where he had gone for the health of his beloved son, George Chafee 
Smith, he embarked therefrom on a Monday afternoon in early 
spring, for Tampa, Florida, to take a steamer for Cuba. His visit 
was both interesting and instructive. He reached Key West on 
the following evening, where at the wharf a score of nude little 
negro boys greeted the ship, begging the passengers to drop a coin 
in the water as an incentive for them to dive many feet and bring 
it up. At this city he visited the reefs, sponge warehouses and 
quaint old buildings. He left at midnight, sighted Cuba, the 
queen of the Antilles, and the last one of the Spanish colonies to 
gain its independence. At early dawn the next day were seen to 
the left the outline of Morro Castle, and to the right, Havana, 
with La Punfa in the distance. Morro Castle was passed on en- 
tering Havana Harbor. There were to be seen also a man-of-war, 
ships flying the colors of various countries ,houses devoid of archi- 
tectural beauty, painted white and blue and yellow, and roofs red- 
tiled, all of which was a curiosity. 

When the vessel came to the protruding main-mast of the 
United States Battle Ship Maine, one of the finest men-of-war, 
Avhich cost two and one-half million dollars, the heart of every 
American passenger grew sick at the story it mutely told of two 
hundred and fifty brave men who went down with it by a sub- 
marine mine; but this sacrifice resulted in Cuba's freedom. 

The custom 'house officials came on board for the usual in- 
spection of the belongings of the passengers. 

Havana, Cuba, is located on a lofty plateau, the coast about 
the city being free from swamps, and, in many places, as around 
Morro Castle, the elevation is as much as fifty feet above the 
sea level. In the near future Havana will be one of the most de- 
sirable residential cities in the tropics. It will be a place quite 
as charming as the valley in which the "discontented Prince of 
Abyssinia" was confined. 

Things appear odd to strangers. The architecture is 
quaint, the coloring is gay, and the floors are nearly all marble or 
stone of one kind or another. There is but little glass in the 
windows. Most of the doors and windows are protected by iron 
gratings, which at first sight would make one think the people 
were a set of feudists. But the truth of the matter is the glass 
prevents the free circulation of air which is so absolutely necessary. 

The large double doors to many of the residences are sug- 
gestive of large warehouses or granaries. Once inside these portals, 
things assume a different aspect from what was anticipated. Usual- 



136 Wilbur R. Smith. 

]y these doors open into a court which is adorned with flowers 
and plants and fountains. On entering Havana at night one 
would think the people never sleep. Everything is in a bustle, it 
matters not whether the hour be late or early. It is the same rush 
of cabs and men on the streets. The customs at the hotels are 
very different from the American hotels. Dinner is ready at 
eight o'clock in the evening and then fashionable people appear in 
full dress. This is the meal of the day and the people enjoy it. 

General Smith first went to a hotel managed by a Spaniard. 
This was called the Hotel Almy and its marble floor and marble 
steps and mahogany stairway bespoke of better days. It was here 
Dr. Kane, the Arctic explorer died. He did not remain long there 
but went to a better hotel where he could hear English spoken. The 
hotel sought had a marble front and was massively built. 
The court was about forty feet square where the light and ventila- 
tion came in. He was handed a candle by a Spanish clerk and was 
shown to his room. Early in the morning he was awakened by the 
noise of fowls which were housed in the f:ourt. At seven o'cock a 
breakfast of cocoa and dry toast was served with raw sugar all from 
the adjacent plantation. 

Every one seemed to enjoy the shade of the Prada — a wide 
and spacious street arranged as a boulevard, with rows of trees, 
a promenade in the center for pedestrians, and on either side a 
drive-way. At the end of this avenue were located the headquarters 
of Capt. Gaines, Provost Marshall of Havana, who was Provost 
Marshal of Lexington during the encampment of the troops there 
the summer previous, and to him was largely due the credit of hav- 
ing a pleasant stay and seeing many sights. General Smith 
had at his disposal a government vehicle, and visited the head- 
quarters of General Lndlow, whom he found to be a most elegant 
gentleman as well as polished soldier. Desiring to visit Morro 
Castle, he had issued to General Smith a pass reading as follows: 

HEADQUARTERS DPJPARTMENT OP HAVANA 

Havana, March 15, 1S99. 
Die. M. M. U. 
To the Comanding Officer, 

Camp IN" ear Havana 
Sir: The Major General Commanding authorizes General W. R. Smitn 
to visit Morro Castle. Very respectfully, 

T. B.MOTT, Asst. kdjt. General. 

Across the bay he found steamers at the foot of Morro Castle, 

laden with old cannon and large iron balls. Passing sentinels he 

walked on up the bowldered road, along the granite cliffs, from 

whose very heights and through whose sides was intrenched 

with almost impregnable security the great Morro Castle, 



For Frfedom of Cuba. 137 

the protector of Cuban patriots. On the west side the angry 
waves of the Gulf beat. Along on the east side, huge iron doors 
swung open to order, and further on, another door, until finally 
they were on the top of the fort, the roof of which was made of solid 
blocks of granite, from which a magnificent view was presented, 
the most beautiful being the American flag from the rampart. In- 
gress to the fort was from the top. The dungeons were visited and 
the same racks and other implements of torture still remaining. 
The various rooms were deep with dust. The cannons were old 
and rusty and of no practical use. The men with the white-wash 
brush and fumigator were to be seen everywhere, for in this death 
hole many soldiers died the previous year from yellow fever. 

General Smith next visited General Maximo Gomez, the 
Cuban General-in-Chief at the Governor's Palace, the Plaza de Ar- 
mas, once occupied by General Weyler. It was on the clay 
that President McKinley recognized General Gomez as 
the leader of the Cuban forces, and of the afternoon when twenty 
thousand troops paraded the streets and called on him to pay their 
respects. General Gomez was impeached by the Cuban Assembly 
March 11, 1890, and the next month reinstated in command of the 
Cuban Army. 

"Seeing an American officer at my side in a Victoria, whose 
driver was ordered to pierce the crowd and reach Gomez's office, 
a guard came riding to us, received our cards, and immediately 
Dpened * way through the crowd and had us driven to the very 
presence of the old General-in-Chief surrounded by his staff and 
beautiful women. He was about seventy years of age and small of 
stature, gray haired with imperial mustache. His eagle eye and 
every expression and movement betokened, that he was more than 
an ordinary man. For twenty years he fought for Cuba's freedom 
prior to this being a Major General in the Spanish Army Through 
an interpreter I was introduced to him on this occasion, reminding 
him that I had been chairman of the Cuban Liberty meeting, and 
by the badge I wore I was a descendant of a Eevolutionary Colonel 
under Washington. This touched the old. man's heart. He said 
he loved Americans, and that he was trying to do his duty for his 
people." 

Leaving General Gomez the visitors were next driven to Castle 
Atares, near where Lieut. William L. Crittenden, a young Ken- 
tuckian who was at the head of the American Expedition which 
landed on Cuban soil, but after being separated from General 
Lopez with whom he made a sacessful attack, was imprisoned/ it 
is said, and was shot on August 11, 1851, at the age of twenty- 
eight. The last words written by Crittenden, "In half an hour, 



138 Wilbur R. Smith. 

I with fifty others, am to be shot. T did my duty. I will die like 
a man. I am afraid the news will break my mother's heart." At 
the hour of execution their hands were tightly chordc-d behind their 
backs. Here under the walls of the castle they were marched in 
squads of ten and being made to kneel five at a time with their 
backs to the firing squad, were shot to death. It is said that when 
the gallant Crittenden was ordered to kneel, refused saying, "A 
Kentuckian kneels only to his God," and met his death erect and 
bravely. No braver spirit has been sacrificed to the cause of free- 
dom and there are few names around which cluster, more chivalric 
romance than this young Kentuckian, who sealed with his death 
his devotion to the cause of liberty. 

General Smith reached Havana a few months after the de- 
parture of the Spanish troops for Spain, but not too late to see 
their service medals, swords and uniforms sold throughout the city 
to tourists. The Spaniards thought all was gone and did not de- 
sire to carry back to their mother country a memento for past good 
services of this or other wars in which they had been engaged. They 
sold valuables, a few of which General Smith was prevailed upon to- 
purchase. 

The object of interest at Havana is the Tomb of Columbus,, 
whose ashes were deposited in an urn which was placed in a niche 
in the wall at the entrance and to the left of the entrance of the 
Cathedral erected in 1724. 

He took an early train for Matanzas, thirty miles distant,, 
which he reached after a three hours' ride through one of the most 
fertile spots under the sun. Here two sugar cane crops are pro- 
duced each year. He saw during this trip beautiful avenues of 
majestic palms, finely proportioned and of great height: revolu- 
tionist outposts to protect sugar mills, and tobacco fields but all in a 
devastated condition. 

Matanzas, the second city of the island, excelled his expecta- 
tions, being at the foot of a hill and on a bay of the same name where 
ships were being laden from small crafts with sacks of raw sugar 
and tropic fruits for countries all over the world. The inhab- 
itants are polished and hospitable. He visited a drug store where 
ten clerks were employed. The store was located opposite the 
square, Plaza De Armas, and would cover one-fourth of a block, 
with inside marble pillars and marble floors. The proprietor in- 
vited Gen. Smith to his home, which was over the store, and 
reached by a costly stairway of marble and mahogany. The par* 
lors were separated by costly portiers between marble pillars, 
and fine chandeliers made the effect charming. The proprietor 
called his wife and daughter, both of whom could speak English. 



For Frfedom of Cuba. 139 

The daughter, as well as a large number of the wealthy class 
was educated in the United States. 

Houses were large and princely, built with pillared fronts and 
porticos, and generally with large flower gardens, while the com- 
bination ol iron railing of pretty design with stone pillars and bases, 
gave a most beautiful effect. 

He visited the Third Kentucky Regiment which inhaenced 
him to take the trip inland, near the city with Maj. Bryant, and 
on horse back viewed the far-famed "Yumuri Valley," with ita 
patches of gold and green gracefully waving palmettos, while 
the little stream "Yumuri" looked from where he was standing 
like a silver thread. Here wild sweet potatoes, bananas, figs and 
all kinds of tropical fruits were free for the picking. 

Upon invitation he attended a reception at the castle given 
by Gen. Wilson, who, with General Sanger and otbers gave him 
a most hearty Avelcome and recounted their pleasant encampment 
at Lexington a few months prior. In this city he also met several 
distinguished natives and also officers of the Spanish regime. 

Inclosing this chapter General Smith said: 

"A retrospective view of the Spanish- American War now pre- 
sents itself and proves that justice though crushed to earth will 
rise again. Panoramic-like in the mind's vision is the meeting 
of the citizens of Lexington protesting against Spanish tyranny 
over Cuba and. demanding her freedom ; next patriotic scene on Feb- 
ruary 11, 1899, following an address by Senator Kushman K Davis, 
at a banquet given by the Republican league of Ohio. 

Senator Davis was one of the Peace Commissioners from 
this country under protocol signed at Washington, D. C, Aug. 
12, 1898, which met and negotiated and concluded a treaty 
of peace written in French, between the United States and Spain, 
at Paris, France, Dec. 10, 1898. 

Mr. Davis responded to the toast, "New Lands and New 
Possibilities. He told interesting facts concerning the sitting, 
referring to the Philippines he said, "I would bring them up ten- 
derly, but in chastisement if we must." Governor Bradley who 
was to speak, was suffering from throat trouble, which was caused 
by a partial burning of the Executive Mansion, detailed me as 
his staff representative to attend. Governor Bushnell and Sen- 
ator Foraker were among those present. 



140 Wilbur R. Smith. 

CHAPTER VIII. 
Mexican War Veterans. 

National Association of Mexican War Veterans. His work for them was 
a work of love and service for the old heroes in assisting to make 
their last annual meetings and reunions happy occasions. Elected an 
Honorary Member. Their visit to Clay's old Home and General Hob- 
son's account of the death of the great Commoner's son in Mexico. 
Elected their Secretary and Treasurer, no compensation, but rather 
the service was regarded as a privilege and pleasure in assisting 
them. Successful campaign for increase of their pensions by the 
United States Congress. Appearing before the Committee on Pen- 
sions. Measure endorsed by Confederate Veterans' Association after 
his appearing before a committee of that body. Congratulations sent 
to President Diaz of Mexico. Recent letters from the widows of U. S. 
Grant and Jefferson Davis, whose husbands were comrades in the 
Mexican War. Presented with Medal of Honor. 

"The nation and people who honor the memory and land the 
valor of their soldiers will never be looking for heroic defenders. 
Great crises and emergencies will always be met by a patriotic re- 
sponse. His chivalric spirit, noble, daring and loyal devotion to 
liberty, have given world-wide fame to the American soldier, and 
none more entitled to this distinction than the soldiers of the 
Mexican War." 

"The mortality list in the Mexican War tells of its severity in 
hardships, exposure and in battle. In the very first engagements 
at Palo Alto, May 8 and 9, 1816, General Taylor's command, 
though inferior in numbers, demonstrated the superiority of the 
American soldier in the defeat of the Mexicans, inflicting heavy 
loss on their army. Again, on Septeniber 21 to 23, 1846, at the 
battle of Monterey, General Taylor, with 4,700 Americans, defeat- 
ed the Mexican army, 10,000 strong. 

"The battle at Buena Vista, February 22 and 23. resulted in 
Generals Taylor and Wool, with an army of 4,700, defeating the 
Mexican army, under Santa Ana, of 22,000, entailing a loss to the 
enemy of 6,000 men, with an American loss of only 267 killed and 
450 wounded. The importance of this victory and the severity 
of this battle give to it historic significance. The battle of Cer- 
ro Gordo, April 18, 1847, ended in the Americans under General 
Scott, numbering 8,500, defeating 12,000 Mexicans under Santa 
Ana, with an American loss of 250 and a Mexican loss of 350, 
besides five generals and 3.000 prisoners. At the battle of Cheru- 
bnsco, August 20. 1848, the American army, commanded by Gen- 
eral Scott, lost 1,066 killed and wounded, while the Mexican loss 



Mexican War Veterans. i-li 

was 6,000. The battle of Molino del Key, September 8, 1847, in 
which the American forces were headed by General Worth, re- 
sulted in a Joss to our army of 787, while the Mexican loss was 
3,000. Other notable engagements were the battle of Chapultepec, 
the capture of the City of Mexico and. many others too numerous 
to be mentioned, here, all tending to prove the courage, the forti- 
tude, the patriotic valor and the superior intelligence of the 
American soldier. 

"The results of the war were advantageous even to Mexico. 
It taught them the superiority of our intelligence, progress and 
patriotism. The expansion of our territory resulting" from this 
war largely augmented the possibilities of greater wealth and 
power. The grand results of this war in territorial acquisition, 
in the higher civilization and enlarged opportunities given to the 
people of the conquered territory, together with the luster their 
valor gave to American soldiers, entitle these veterans of the Mex- 
ican war to the Nation's gratitude, the historian's praise and the 
emcomium of the orator, and. last, but not least, on various occa- 
sions, the warmest welcome our people gave them." 

One of the most interesting meetings ever held in Lexington 
was that of the Mexican War Veterans, which convened at the 
Court House in May, 1895. Th'ev were guests of the city and right 
royally were they entertained. First at the State College, by the 
Daughters of the American Revolution, at the Woman's Culb 
Rooms, and at "Ashland," the home of Henry Clay. Maj. Mc- 
Dowell's welcome was responded to by Gen. E. H. Hobson, Presi- 
dent of the State Society, who told the relatives and friends on the 
beautiful lawn, of the home of Henry Clay. Jr., how noble Clay 
was killed, and by his comrades carried off the battle field at 
Buena Vista. At this meeting of the Association, Maj. and Mrs. 
H. C. McDowell and General Smith were elected Honorary mem- 
bers of their Association. 

Letter of Notification of his Election as Honorary Member 
of National Association of Mexican War Veterans follows: 

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF MEXICAN WAR VETERANS, 

Office of the Secretary. 

Lexington, Ky. 
Colonel "Wilbur R. Smith, 

Lexington, Ky. 
Dear Sir: 

I have the pleasure to notify you that at a meeting of 
this Association held in this city, you were unanimously 
elected Honorary Member, 

Yours very truly, 

JESSE WOODRUFF, 

Secretarv. 



142 Wilbur R. Smith. 

The next animal meeting was held at Cynthiana, Ky., May 12, 
1896, which was in gala attire to receive the veterans. The streets 
were a mass of flags and bunting. Without a single exception, the 
merchants decorated their business houses and a number of pri- 
vate residences threw the National colors to the breeze. 

The Cynthiana band and committee of reception, awaited 
each incoming train. An impromptu parade conducted them to 
their quarters. The homes of the citizens were thrown open to 
the Veterans. 

At the opera house about 11 :30 Mayor F. S Ashbrook called 
the meeting to order. The building was packed from pit to, dome. 
Rev. E. L. Southgate offered prayer. The Cynthiana orchestra 
was in evidence. Mr. J. Irvin Blanton, a member of the coun- 
cil, delivered a brilliant address of welcome. 

Gen. E. H. Hobson, of Greensburg, President, responded in 
behalf of his comrades and spoke of his high pride in once more 
receiving so warm a greeting from the Cynthiana people. Once 
before, the General said, he had been captured pretty close to 
Cynthiana by one of his old Mexican War comrades, referring to 
Gen. John H. Morgan at the fight at Keller's bridge, during 
the Civil War, and now he was again captured by the city 
itself. As the aged veteran lovingly wrapped his arms about the 
torn and tattered battle flags which had been carried to so many 
gallant victories by the Kentucky boys in the fields of Mexico, he 
brought tears to the eyes of his comrades. And again they lived 
over once more in memory of the many stirring scenes of their first 
experience in war. 

The meeting following was at Nashville, Tenn., in 1897, when 
Gen. Smith received the following dispatch at Lexington. 

Nashville, Tenn. 

Col. W. R. Smith, 

Will you accept the unanimous election of Secretary 
and Treasurer of the National Association of Mexican War 
Veterans ? 

W. S. McCHESNEY, 

Vice-President 

Gen. Smith wired his appreciation of the honor and that he 
would do all he could for the survivors of the Mexican War. 

The next meeting was held at Louisville, Ky., in the Council 
Chamber, September 21-22, 1898, which was a royal affair of two 
days, including General and Mrs. Bennett Young's reception; 

Just prior to the conclusion of the meeting at Louisville, 
Ky., and during General Smith's absence, complimentary speeches 
were made by General Hobson, and others on the work done by 



Mexican War Veterans. 143 

Mm, their Secretary, and on motion it was voted that as a token 
of esteem and the high regard held by the Association for General 
Smith, a Badge of Honor he voted him. 

A Committee, consisting of President Hobson, Vice-President 
McChesney and Col. E. M. Davis was appointed to procure and 
present this badge to General Smith, in behalf of the survivors 
•of the Mexican War. 

On September 29, 1898, immediately after Governor Brad- 
ley entertained at the Executive Mansion, Generals Breckin- 
ridge, Wilson, Wiley and Waites and their Chiefs of Staff, General 
Smith, a member of the party, was called to the Governor's 
Executive Office, where Capt. W. S. McChesney, Vice President 
of the National Association of Mexican War Veterans, in carry- 
ing out instructions of his Association and in a formal address, 
presented him a badge of honor. 

V^ce-President McChesney, in presenting the badge said : 

"It lias been unanimously decided by the National As- 
sociation of Mexican War Veterans to present to their most 
worthy Secretary, Gen. Wilbur R. Smith, as a token of their 
esteem for his untiring efforts in their behalf, this badge. 
As the State has been honored in the memorable war by the 
valor of her troops, it is most fitting' that this token of our 
regard should be expressed at her capitol. The triumphs of 
a contest with a foreign foe, adding to other bright triumphs 
performed by Kentucky sons, as well as by other heroes of 
our country, will add to history's pages bright passages to be 
read and admired by coming generations." 

"Though our eyes are now dim, our hands palsied, and 
our steps feeble, and we begin to sigh for our long home, the 
day is dawning, the light breaks forth from the east, when 
the principles of our constitution will spread like the glorious 
sun over the world, diffusing peace and good will among all 
the nations of the earth." 

The medal is made of solid gold, oblong two by three inches, 
and is surrounded by a frosted wreath. In the center is a medal- 
lion of Gen. Win field Scott, the old Mexican War hero. 

This badge is mounted by an eagle under which is engraved 
on blue scroll, "National Association of Mexican War Veterans." 

On the reverse side is engraved, "Presented to Gen. W. E. 
Smith by National Association of Mexican War Veterans as a 
token of esteem to their Secretary." It is held by the National 
colors and a pin. 

The next meeting was held in Indianapolis, Indiana, Sep- 
tember 13th and 14th, 1899, where Governor Mount welcomed the 
veterans. At this meeting letters of congratulation were sent to 



J4- 



Wn.BUE R. Smith. 



President Diaz, of Mexico.* Also letters were received from the 
widows of General Grant and Jefferson Davis,* whose husbands 
were comrades. 

The next meeting was held in the Council Chamber in Cin- 
cinnati, September, 1900. The veterans were welcomed by Mayor 
Fleisehman. 

At the next meeting which was held in Cleveland, September, 
1.901, General Hobson, the beloved President, was too ill to pre- 
side, and died a few hours later after he requested General Smith 
to give his comrades his love and a few suggestions about the meet- 
in 2. 




GEN. E. H. 
Ex.-Pres. M. A. M. W. V. 




CAPT. W. S. McCHESNEY 
Pres. IN". A. M. W. V- 




PRESENTATION OF MEDAL OF HONOR 

By the National Association of Mexican War Veterans to Gen. Wilbur R. 

Smith, their Secretary, at the Executive Office of the Governor 

of Kentucky, by Vice President McGhesney. 



MEDAL OF HONOR 

This beautiful and prized Medal is made 
of gold, oblong, 2x3 inches, and is sur- 
rounded by a frosted heavy wreath. In the 
center is a medallion of Gen. Winfield Scott. 
It is surmounted by an eagle, under which is 
engraved on a blue scroll, "National Associa- 
tion of Mexican War Veterans." On the re- 
verse side is engraved, "Presented to Gen. 
Wilbur R. Smith by the National Association 
of Mexican War Veterans as a token of their 
esteem to their Secretary." 




146 Wilbur R. Smith. 

General Smith believed these old heroes, a remnant of nearly 
five thousand from Kentucky who answered their country's call, 
over half a century ago, should have an increase of pension. He 
went to work systematically, to enlist the sympathy and co-opera- 
tion of prominent people for the bill. Pie had Senator Lindsey, 
of Kentucky, present the hill for the purpose above stated. Hun- 
dreds of letters of endorsement were received and much sentiment 
was created, by using newspaper articles in which were incor- 
porated replies to his communications to Governors, Senators, 
Bishops, Generals and Admirals, also resolutions from G. A. Ti. 
Posts, and Confederate Veterans' Association. 

He secured an unanimous endorsement of the 'United I Con- 
federate Veterans' Association at their meeting held in Louisville 
in June, 1900, when the Committee on Resolutions had retired to 
their room for conference, he was received, and made a plea for an 
endorsement of this powerful and influential organization of the 
South, for a section in their general resolution which he had al- 
ready written out, which they personally approved and which was 
unanimously endorsed by the 6,000 confederate veterans present, ex- 
cept by one man and this called forth an eloquent tribute for the 
measure from General John B. Gordon the Commander-in-Chief, to 
the valor of the Mexican veterans and the justness of the bill. The 
resolution was read by General Thomas W. Carwile and was as fol- 
lows : 

Whereas, there is a bill now pending before Congress 
for the increase of pensions in behalf of the survivors of the 
Mexican War and their widows: 

Whereas this bill was the result of a resolution passed 
the last annual meeting of the National Association of Mex- 
ican War Veterans asking Congress to grant said increase of 
pensions, and in accordince with this request a bill favoring 
the increase now pending before Congress; therefore be it 

Resolved, That it is the judgment of ihe United Confed- 
erate veterans now assembled at Louisville, that the few re- 
maining old heroes of fifty 3 r ears ago should have the in- 
crease of pensions asked for during the remainder of their 
lives by a grateful Republic. And be it further- 
Resolved, That we endorse the bill looking to an in- 
crease of pensions for the Mexican War veterans, and urge 
Congress to grant the request being prayed for at the earliest 
possible date. 

Geneial Smith appeared before the Grand Army of the lie- 
public at Cleveland, Ohio, in 1900 for a similar purpose. 

These resolutions were printed and sent to both branches of 
Congress. He visited Washington, D. C, on this mission several 
times. Northern Representatives said it was a measure that would 
benefit Southerners, who had always protested against pension legis- 



Mexican War Veteeans. 147 

lation. On the other side Senator Bates of Tennessee, and Pettus 
of Alabama, soldiers of the Mexican War, as well as most of the 
numerous delegates of the South, were averse to pensions of any 
kind. It required some hard work to bring both the ^Torth and 
South together on this question, which was finally done and the 
bill passed. 

General Smith then resigned his secretaryship, saying he 
had seen accomplished what he had set out to do, and that too, 
without the cost of a dollar to the veterans. His work was that of 
love. He bore the expense himself. 

HALL OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 
Indianapolis, Ind., Sept. 14, 1S99. 

♦WHEREAS, The National Association of Mexican War 
Veterans assembled learned with pleasure that his Excellency 
President Diaz has passed safely another milestone in the 
journey of life and his reign as President of the Republic 
of Mexico, therefore be it 

RESOLVED, That the members of the National As- 
sociation of Mexican War Veterans now assembled in annual 
convention, congratulate his Excellency, President P. Diaz, 
of the Republic of Mexico on his having reached another 
birthday; and that the people of Mexico have so good, 
wise and judicious ruler at the head of their government. 

RESOLVED, That we pray God to deal kindly with his 
Excellency, President P. Diaz, as well as the people of Mexico 
that fraternal relations shall ever be maintained between 
the United States and Mexico. 

The above resolutions were unanimously passed and ordered 
sent to his Excellency, President P. Diaz. 

President Diaz wrote the Association his high appreciation of 
the resolutions. 

The following letters were received from the widows of Grant 
and Davis, comrades in the Mexican War, but afterwards prominent 
opposing leaders in the Civil War. They unite in laudation of 
the purpose and services of their husbands for their country in the 
Mexican War, forgetful of the asperities in after years. 

Mrs. Grant,, wife of Gen. U. S. Grant, and former President 
of the United States. 

Mrs. Davis, wife of President Jefferson Davis, of the Con- 
federate States. 

WESTERN UNION TELEGRAPH CO 

Coburg, Ontario, Sept. 23. 
General Wilbur R. Smith, 

I regret I. am unable to accept the polite invitation 




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Mexican War Veterans. 149 

of the Mexican War Veterans. I hope you will believe my 
heart is still with you, as it was for the four years, when 
Liut. Ulysses S. Grant was helping scale the walls of 
Chapultepec, taking Molindelrey, and seizing Saint Cosme 
Road. I had precious letters from there. I have them still. 
I hope you may yet meet many times. 

JULIA DENT GRANT. 

Port Col borne, Ontario, Canada, Sept. 22. 
General W. R. Smith, 

My dear Sir: I have received your very gratifying 
invitation to attend the meeting of the National Associa- 
tion of Mexican War Veterans and wish my health would 
permit me to accept, but old age will deprive me of this 
gratification. I may be counted a veteran since fifty-six 
years ago my husband and the young men of my family 
were present in the enemy's front. In the greater wars of 
a later date, the veterans of the war with Mexico have faded 
from the view of the men of this day, but in proportion to 
the number engaged, and the results to our country of the 
American victories over the Mexicans, there have been no 
more beneficial victories for us, and certainly never were 
more gallant deeds performed by any army. Their prowess 
gave peace to our boundary, which, before that time was 
the scenes of constant raids and much destruction of the 
frontiersmen's property, and settled our status probably for 
a hundred years with our neighboring country. In that day 
there was no telegraphic line of communication south of 
Baltimore, and those vitally interested in the army at home, 
suffered more than the people of this day can comprehend, 
from long sustained fear and hope deferred. 

Congratulating you, the comrades of my husband upon 
your brilliant achievements in the long ago, I am, 

Yours very cordially and admiringly, 

VARINA JEFFERSON DAVIS. 



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Commissions of Wilbur R.Smith 

FROM PRESIDENT W.H.TAFT, ALSO GOV- 
ERNORS BRADLEY, BROWN ^VVILLSON of KV- 






Held Many Positions of JHoxor and Trust. 151 

HELD MANY POSITIONS OF HONOR AND TRUST. 

CHAPTER IX. 

A President and four Governors, three Mayors and others have appointed 
General Smith to positions of honor and trust. Elected Member or va- 
rious Social, Historical, patriotic and fraternal societies, and organiza- 
tions. His services sought by Banking and other organizations. At one 
time the President, "Vice-President, Director or Trustee of eight or- 
ganizations. 

APPOINTMENTS FROM THE PRESIDENT, GOVERNORS 
OF KENTUCKY AND OTHERS. 

President William H. Taft appoints him Postmaster, Lexington, Ky., 
1911. 

President Woodrow Wilson, administration, (1913) incumbent. 

Governor John Young Brown, on March 13, 1893, appoints him as mem- 
ber of the Kentucky Board of Managers of the World's Exposition. State 
Appropriation $100,000. 

Governor William O. Bradley, on Dec. 16, 1895, appoints him as Aide- 
ae Campe of the Staff of the Governor with the rank of Colonel. 

Governor William O Bradley, Aug. 12, 1897, appoints him a Commis- 
sioner to represent Kentucky at the Trans-Mississippi and International Ex- 
position held at Omaha, Nebraska, June to November, 1S9S. 

Governor William O. Bradley, on Sept. S, 1S9S, appoints him as Ad- 
jutant General of Kentucky. 

Governor William O. Bradley, on ISov. 10, 1898, appoints him as Com- 
missioner for the Eastern Kentucky Asylum. 

Governor Augustus E. Willson, on January 1, 1909, appoints him a dele- 
gate to represent the State of Kentucky at all meetings of the Lincoln 
Centenary Committee and on Feb. 12, 1909, at the Lincoln Centenary, held 
at Lincoln Farm, Larue county, Kentucky. 

Governor Augustus E. Willson, on Nov. 27, 190;), appoints him a dele- 
gate to represent the State of Kentucky at the Southern Commercial Con- 
gress held at Washington, D. C, Dec. 6th and 7th, 1909. 

Governor Augustus E. Willson in 1911, appoints him a member of the 
Committee of the unveiling exercises of the Lincoln statue in the rotunda 
of Ih State Capitol, Frankfort, Ky., at which President Taft and others made 
addresses. 

Order of exercise of the Lincoln Centennial Celebration, Birthplace 
Farm, were addresses by Hon. Joseph W. Folk, President of the Lincoln Farm 
Association, Hon. Augustus E. Willson on behalf of tho Commonwealth of 
Kentucky; Hon. Theodore Roosevelt, President of the United States of Ameri- 
ca, n behalf of the American people; Gen. James Grant Wilson, on be- 
half of the Union Veterans, Hon. Luke E. Wright, Secretary of War, on be- 
half of the Confedeate VeVterans Laying of the Corner Stone of the 
Lincoln Memorial by President Ro isevelt. 




President Taft Appoints Him Post- Master, Lexington, Ky., July 22nd, 1911. 

Takes Charge of Office, Sept. 1, 1911. 

Office First- Class; Annual Business Done, $140,000.00. 

President Woodrow Wilson Administration (1913) Incumbent. 



Held Many Positions of Ho;n t or and Trust. 153 

NOTE:— The object of the Southern Commercial Con- 
gress was to promote by deliberation, a greater nation, 
through a greater South. The stake involved being the 
greatest commercial history of the United States, a southern 
rush of development before 1915, a condition of prepared- 
ness for the opportunities that rest under the influences of 
the Panama Canal in producing a southward swing of com- 
merce. 

Governor Bradley proffered appointment as Member of the 
State Board of Equalization which he could not accept. 

In 1887 Delegate to the State Industrial Convention held at 
Louisville. Ky., Governor S. B. Bnckner presiding. 

In 1891 he was made a Vice President of the Executive Com- 
mittee of .1,000 business men assembled in Louisville, Ky., "to ad- 
vance Kentucky's interests at the World's Columbian Exposition, 
and to assist in formulating a bill and to use all honorable means 
towards having the Legislature pass it." Governor Buckner pre- 
sided, and II. S. Senator William Lindsey and ex-Lieut. Gov. Ed- 
ward McDermott were also members of this Committee. 

In 1892 he was a delegate to the Immigration Convention at 
Louisville, Ky., and appointed by Judge Savage, of Ashland on 
Committee on Credentials. 

Mayor H. T. Duncan proffered him the appointment as a mem- 
ber of the Board of Equalization of Lexington, Ky. 

On Nov. 10, 1902, he was appointed by Mayor H. T. Dun- 
can as a delegate to the Good Roads Convention. 

Mayor J. H. Davidson on May 27, 1892, appointed him as one 
of the Committee to receive a delegation of fifty prominent citi- 
zens of Philadelphia, who were to present our state an oil paint- 
ing which they brought of the first 'National Capitol Building 
where congress met when Kentucky was admitted to the sisterhood 
of states. By formal exercises Gov. John Young Brown received 
the picture on Cheapside, Lexington, in behalf of the state. 

Mayor Thomas A. Combs on August 15, 1904, appoints him 
a member of the Board of Park Commissioners, of Lexington, foi 
two years. 

For thirteen years elected a Director of the Young Men's 
Christian Association. 

For ten years President, Vice-President or Director of the 
Chamber of Commerce. 

Became a member of True Unity Lodge No. 575 at Hig- 
ginsport, Ohio, December 27, 1877. Removed membership 
to Merrick Lodge No. 31, Lexington, Ky.. which was insti- 
tuted Nov. 16th, 1346. His withdrawal card was dated Jan. 
9, 1899, recommending him as one who having attained the 



154 Wilbur R : Smith. 

third degree, to the friendship, protection and admission into 
any other lodge of Odd Fellows. 

Demit card from Lexington Lodge, No. 1, F. & A. M., 
chartered 17S8, in good standing and clear of records ana 
as such cordially commend him to the fraternal regard oi 
all Free and Accepted Masons wherever deposited around 
the globe. 

On reception committee Mav 27, 1892, at the Triennial Meet- 
ing of the Sons of the Revolution, at Washington, D. C. 

He attended the ."National Republican Convention in Phila- 
delphia in 1900 in the place of alternate delegate from Kentucky. 

For a number of years a Delegate to the County, District and 
State Republican conventions. 

Vice President for several years of the Phoenix National Bank 
and also one of its Directors for several years. 

A member of various committees that went before the State 
Legislature of Kentucky on important matters of the City's in- 
terest including that of the Capitol removal. 

Member of many committees on receiving distinguished men 
and important organizations including receiving Gov. Jos. W. Folk, 
of Missouri and Gov J. C. W. Beckham .of Kentucky and the Of- 
ficers of the Southern Educational Society. On Feb. 25, 1892, he 
was a member of a Committee from the Chamber of Commerce to 
receive Gov. John Young Brown and members of the General As- 
sembly who visited Lexington and the State College. 

He was Secretary of Kentucky's Centennial Celebration. 

Appointed delegate to the Golden Jubilee Convention of the 
National Republican League June 1906 at Philadelphia, by Gov. 
W. 0. Bradley, President K. S. L. and Gov. A. E. Willson, Secretary. 

Secretary of Law Department of Kentucky University, when 
Hon. M, C. Johnson author of the Code of Practice of Kentucky 
was Vice- President. 

Elected member of Kentucky State Historical Society, Aug. 2. 
1904, Governor J. C. W. Beckham, President. 

Promoter of Kentucky Centennial Exposition 1892 to com- 
memorate the admission of Kentucky into the sisterhood of states 
and which was endorsee) by the Citv Council, Dec. 3, 1891. 

A director of the Lexington Exposition 1894-95. 

A member of a committee of fifty which raised $55,000 in 
twelve days for Y. M. C. A. 

Elected a member of the Lexington Golf Club, Nov. 18, 1896. 

A member of the Lake Ellerslie Fishing Club. 

A member of the Country Club, Lexington, Ky. 

Elected a member of the Lexington Union Club, one of the 
most prominent in the South, after being invited to a dinner given 
by the Club. 



Held Many Positions of Honor and Trust. [55 

Invited by the Society of Cincinnati, Feb. 10, 1909, to become 
a member of this Society which was organized in 1783, by officers of 
the Eevolntionary War. 

Tn banking and financial circles Gen. Smith was remarkably 
successful. He was one of the Directors of the Phoenix ISTational 
Bank, Chairman of its Auditing Committee, and for years its Vice 
President.. The other officers were W. IT. Cassel, Pres., Judge 
Watts Parker, Judge Mat Walton, D. F. Frazee, E. M. Norwood, 
James Eogers, Mayor J. H. Davidson, M. G. Thomppson, B S. Gen- 
try, G. D. Wilson and Haydon Kendall. He accommodated a pur- 
chaser of his stock at $160 per share when there were ten other 
banks. This Bank had the deposit of the City and Countv and has 
had over a million dollars on deposit. 

He was a Director and member of Auditing Committee of the 
Fayette Safety Vault and Trust Company. His associate Direc- 
tors were Judge Watts Parker, Maj. E. S. Bullock, Judge Mat 
Walton, M. G. Thompson, T. D. Mitchell, Asa Dodge, J. A. Headley, 
C. S. Scott, H. Hillenmeyer and W. E. McCann. Although hold- 
ing stock in a Building Association and other financial concerns and 
asked to serve as officer, he refused for want of time. 

As a newspaper man he was successful. From 1886 to 1901 
he edited and published the Business World, a monthly paper the 
size of Harper's Weekly, of ten thousand copies. This Avas suc- 
ceeded some months after by the Business Eeview. 

He was projector of the Press Club of Lexington and was 
made an honorary member of the Club and was called by Col. John 
0. Hodges, Editor, and Chairman of the Eeception Committee 
to be first assistant in receiving the State Press Association. He 
has contributed some articles of merit for different publications. 

Tn church affairs he can be judged better by his being elected 
to different offices for years as Secretary of the Boardof Trus- 
tees of his church. 

He was Trustee of the City Library, founded in 1795, which 
was the first public library west of the Allegheny Mountains. E. D. 
Sayre, Judge A. Buford. H. T. Duncan and P. Farnsworth. were the 
other trustees. 

He was one of the charter members, and afterwards Secretary 
and Treasurer of the Kentucky Society of Sons of the Involution, 
and a Delegate to the National Society at different times. 

He accepted the office as a member of the Board of Educa- 
tion in 1897 to assist in making sure the election of Hon. Wm. 
Eogers Clay, now of the Kentucky Court of Appeals, as Principal 
of the City Schools, also to work for and to maintain the appro- 
priation for the Department of Music and Kindergarten, etc. 



156 Wilbur R. Smith. 

Associated on the, Board with him were Rev. Mark Collis 
Chairman, Dr. Lyman Beecher Todd, Louis Strauss, C. W. Bean, 
Jos. Overstreet, John Pew, A. G. Morgan, Mrs. A. M. Harrison. 

March 4th, 1897, he was the Chairman of the Building Com- 
mittee, etc., Committee on Finance, also of supplies and printing. 

The number of school children were 4,843 ; teachers employed, 
101 ; amount used for school purposes and expense, was 
$61,986.65. 

He was a member of the first Board of Park Commissioners 
of Lexington and which also built the Auditorium. 

The other Commissioners were J. W. Porter, Rev. C. H. 
Branch, Prof. Scoville and H. F. Hillemeyer. This Commission 
was to have charge, not only of Woodland Park, but the custody 
of all the parks and grounds owned by the city of Lexington. 

Maj. J. C. Almstead, of Boston, Massachusetts, a landscape 
architect was appointed by the Board on Oct. 6th, to lay out Wood- 
land Park. Soon after an auditorium was erected costing 
$20,000. 

The Lexington Herald said in an editorial, August 18, 1894, 
"We congratulate Lexington on the personnel of the newly ap- 
pointed Park Commissioners. Their names are earnest that the 
interests of the community will be paramount in the decisions of 
all questions. 

In September, 1894, the Board went to Louisville, Kv., as the 
guests of The Lexington Herald, to visit the parks of that city. 
General John B. Castleman, President of the Board of Park Com- 
missioners of that city, accompanied them through all the parks, 
which enabled each member to gain considerable information. 
Tbe Board fully appreciated this courtoeus assistance rendered b> 
Editor Desha Breckinridge, also General Castleman. 



Chamber of Commence, i5? 

CHAMBER OF COMMEECE 
CHAPTEE X 

Charter member. Ten years an Officer as Director, Vice-President- Presi- 
dent. His Anniversary Message, "Facts and Figures" printed in 
pamphlet form used by City Officials. Representing it and the busi- 
ness interests of Lexington at important Conventions. Arbiter be- 
tween Knights of Labor and Contractors. Advocating State Cap- 
ital removal, State University. L. & E. Appropriation. Water Works 
and U. S. Government Building. Promoter of Kentucky Centennial 
Exposition, also Secretary of Citizens' Committee in the Celebration 
of the 100th Anniversary of Kentucky's admission into the sister- 
hood of states. Barbecue. Transition of Centennials (18th and 19th 
Century) exercises. Presented with gold-headed cane, presentation 
speech made by Mayor Duncan. 

Alive to the interests of Lexington, General Smith expended 
money and devoted no little time toward its advancement. We 
find him prominent throughout the history of this organization 
of which he was a charter member. Its articles of incorporation, 
Nov. 1, 1881, stated its purpose to promote the commercial and 
industrial interests of Lexington. He was elected continuously 
as one of its Directors during the years '85, '86, '87, '88, and as 
Vice-President in '89, '90. '91, and '92, and President in 1893. 
He acted as Chairman and otherwise during this period, on im- 
portant committees. The appreciation of his services was also 
shown by being appointed a delegate to different conventions of 
business men for the purpose of deliberating and devising means 
for the advancement of the interests of the state. 

The annual message of General Smith in 1893, while Presi- 
dent of this organization, "Facts and Figures to show how Lex- 
ington, the Capital of the Bluegrass region, maintains her match- 
less supremacy" was published by order of this organization in 
pamphlet form, containing fifty-six pages, in condensed form, in- 
cluding valuable statistics regarding Lexington. This pamphlet 
was used in selling our city bonds; also showing its inducements 
to manufacturers to locate their plants in Lexington. 

When its officer, he was called upon May 12, 1893, by the 
Knights of Labor and contractors to adjust a difference between 
them, when nearly one thousand men were on the eve of calling 
a strike. He was made a member of the special conference com- 
mittee which met in his office, Mav 14, 1893, before whom a 
number of locked-out carpenters appeared and presented their 
statement. Tt was here again shown that be was a diplomat and 



158 Wilbur R. Smith. 

a wise arbiter. He was requested to visit the Grand Council of 
the Knights of Labor in Lexington and advise with them on the 
situation and suggest the proper thing to do. As a disinterest- 
ed party, wishing justice to prevail, he advised them to act in 
such a way, that there was no general strike and submitted the 
following report : 

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 

Chartered in 1881 
"Wilbur R. Smith, President. 

Lexington, Ky., May 20, 1893. 
To the Contractors: 

The below proposition is made by the President of the 
Central Labor Council and desires me to transmit it to you: 
The Carpenters and Joiners will return Monday morn- 
ing and commence working nine hours a day at an agreed 
price fixed between you and employees Will you receive 
such? The nine hours not to apply to mill men. This will 
be a final adjustment of the Trade Rules, if agreed to by you. 
Our arbitration committee is anxious for a final and 
speedy adjustment of differences existing between the con- 
tractors and employees for the best interests of both, the 
city in general. This committee has done all in their power 
to affect an amicable settlement, and make this their last 
report. 

Most respectfully, 
(SIGNED) 

WILBUR R. SMITH, 
J. B. MORTON, 
E. B. WOOD, 

Member of Committee 

The State Capital removal had been the main issue of various 
sessions of the Legislature. This issue was believed by many to 
have been used and abused by friend and foe, for the advancement 
of their own political ambitions and suggested as a trading in- 
flunee for pending and prospective legislation. If all the ef- 
forts made by the people of Lexington through its Chamber of 
Commerce and allied friends throughout the state had not been 
handicapped by false friends, Lexington would now be the capital 
of Kentucky. 

Banquets and personal entertainments were given to mem- 
bers of the Legislature to discuss and gain friends for the Capital 
removal. On June 9, 1893, General Smith, when President of 
the Chamber of Commerce, appointed a committee of twenty-five 
citizens, who were entrusted with the entire fight of the Capital 
removal to Lexington. A banquet was given to members of the 
Legislature, and General Smith gave a luncheon at his home to 
the special Legislative Committee, on the Capital location. 



Chamber of Commerce. 



ij>9 



He was a member of a Committee, or otherwise worked for 
an appropriation from this city for the Lexington & Eastern Ry. ; 
also for water works, appropriation for the State University, 
also for federal appropriation for the present Government build- 
ing in this city, and many other important measures for the up- 
building of Lexington. The records also show that he was the 
promoter of the Kentucky Centennial Exposition, and in other 
ways properly celebrating the 100th Anniversary of Kentucky's 
admission into the sisterhood of states which follows: 




CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BANQUET 

Given in honor of the Kentucky Legislature when the Capital Removal 
was agitated. (Phoenix Hotel.) 



"At a regular meeting of the Chamber of Commerce 
in the autumn of 1891 a number of people were present and 
much interest was manifested in the measures of planning 
an appropriate celebration of Kentucky's Centennial year. 

Prof. W. R. Smith moved to appoint a committee lo act 
with the committee cf the general council on the Centennial 



160 Wilbur R. Smith. 

Exposition in this city ; to be held in 1892. Prof Smith 
spoke with great earnestness in advocating the importance 
of this movement, and the many advantages that would re- 
sult to the city and state from holding a great industrial ex- 
position, commemorating the 100th Anniversary of the ad- 
mission of the state into the Union, the prize exhibits to be 
sent to ihe World's Columbian Exposition the next year 

Prof. G. W. Ranck, historian, also urged the im_ 
portance of the movement and said it should be done and 
well done. 

Mr. Chas. Stoll advocated the movement as one of 
great importance and hoped that it would be taken hold 
of and pushed with energy and success. 

The resolution was moved and carried. The follow- 
ing committee was appointed: Prof. W. R. Smith, Prof. G. 
W. Ranck, Judge Mat Walton, William E. Bush, Maj. H. 
C. McDowell, Milton Young, Prof. W. L. Threlkeld, Judge 
George Denny, C. H. Stoll, J. H. Davidson, William Warfield, 
and Sam J Roberts. 

This, the Chamber of Commerce endorsed, also the legis- 
lature of the state by allowing $15,000 of the Worlds' Fair appro- 
priation to be used for this purpose. 

A defect in the constitutional passage of the bill for $100,000 
appropriation for Kentucky representation to the World's Colum- 
bian Exposition, of which Kentucky's Exposition fund was a part 
and the long time intervening before the Court af Appeals pass- 
ed its decision on the validity of the bill, carried to past the time 
fixed for the celebration. This event, though, was celebrated by 
an immense barbecue and among those present being a delegation of 
officers and business men from Philadelphia headed by Col. Peyton 
who were received by our citizens. The object of their visit was also 
to present to Kentucky a picture of the Old Carpenters Hall, where 
Congress was assembled when this state was added to the Union. 
Mr. E. D. Sayre was President and Prof. W. R. Smith was Sec- 
retary of the Centennial Committee. 

The following invitation was issued and brought distinguish- 
ed people from many states to be present on this notable occasion: 

CITIZENS OF LEXINGTON 

REQUEST THE HONOR OF YOUR PRESENCE AT A 
BARBECUE 

TO CELEBRATE THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF 
KENTUCKY'S ADMISSION INTO THE SISTERHOOD OF STATES 

Woodland Park, June 1, 1892. 
Wilbur R. Smith, E. D. Sayre 

Secretary Chairman of Committee 



Chamber of Commerce. ](31 

The next Centenary Anniversary to which we see Gen. Smith 
invited by the Chamber of Commerce participate in was at the 
Opera House at Lexington, Ky., as a guest on the platform with 
speakers at the closing of the Eighteenth Century and the usher- 
ing in of the Nineteenth Century. 

Col. W. C. P. Breckinridge, the "silver-tongued" orator de- 
livered a fine address during the time when one century was 
changing to another century. 

At the end of his term as presiding officer of the Chamber 
of Commerce, during which time its membership was nnusnally 
large, and marked a period of great usefulness, and refusing re- 
election as president, he was presented with a gold-headed cane 
at the last regular meeting of his administration, Jan. 21, 1894, 
by that body and the citizens generally. The presentation speech 
was delivered by Mayor H. T. Duncan in the following words: 

"It is not merely as President of the Chamber of Com- 
merce that Prof. Smith deserves the gratitude of the citi- 
zens of Lexington, but also as one of Kentucky's World's 
Fair Commissioners, and on account of his being at 
the head of one of the most important educational institu- 
tions. As a token, therefore, of our appreciation of these 
things and as an evidence of our regard for your worth as 
a citizen, and as a man, I take pleasure in presenting to 
you this memento of this occasion.*' 

On the head of the cane was engraved the words, "Pre- 
sented to Wilbur R. Smith, President of the Chamber of 
Commerce, by officers and members, Lexington, Ky., Jan. 
21, 1S94. 



Social Life. I63 

SOCIAL LIFE 
CHAPTEE XL 

(See Family Supplement). 
Reunion of his famly on Thanksgiving and Christmas, considered happy 
and sacred events. Entertains relatives and friends with proverbial 
Kentucky hospitality, also Ministers, including Bishops and Evan- 
gelists, Governors, Senators, Judges of the Supreme Court, Legis- 
lators, State Officials, Admirals, Count and a Prince and Member of 
Parliament. Dean Rogers, of Yale University, United States Com- 
missioner of Education, State Superintendents of Public Instruction 
and other prominent educators. Recipient of many social cour- 
tesies at the Executive Mansion by Governor and Mrs. Bradley, 
also by Governors of different states, Clubs and genial friends. His 
visit to his son, a student at Phillips Andover, Mass., Academy. 
With wife and daughter at a dinner given in honor of Sir Chen- 
ting Liang Chang of China. Entertained at dinner by Dean and 
Mrs. Rogers of Yale Law School, Justice Brown of the United 
States Supreme Court, and wife also guests. 

GENERAL SMITH enjoyed his home like a Xew Engiander 
during Thanksgiving and Christmas time, the time of reunion of 
relatives and friends from different states. He has entered into the 
home-coming of his son from Philips- Andover and Yale University 
and from Columbus, 0., where he is located as attorn ey-at-1 aw ,and 
afterwards his daughter Marguerite, a student at Wellesley Col- 
lege, Massachusetts, and later at Dana Hall, also house parties 
of his sons and daughters with their merry friends. 

He has entertained at his home representatives of re- 
ligious and other assemblies. While his has been a strenuous life 
from childhood in educational, financial, political, official and in 
other lines, yet he has enjoyed the social and religious part of 
life as well. 

He never cared to be what might be strictly termed a "club 
man/' although a club member. In his home there existed such 
an affinity in the ties of love and comradeship that he felt he was 
losing valuable time in seeking diversion elsewhere. While this was 
the case with General Smith he enjoyed the presence of other kin- 
dred spirits and the amenities of life at the fireside, and in religious 
and social functions. 

He is a member of the Country Club, Sons of the Revolu- 
tion, Brotherhood or Club of the Second Presbyterian Church, 
Lexington Union Club and fraternal organizations. 

He has given dinners in honor of and introduction to many, 
including the pastors of the Second Presbyterian Church, the new 
president of old Kentucky University, at which many represen- 
tative citizens were guests and where Avelcome addresses and toasts 
were offered. Different Governors of Kentucky, Justice of the 



164 Wilbur R. Smith. 

Supreme Court. Bishops of the Episcopal church, and the leaders 
of thought in many other churches have been his guests. 

Among other distinguished men whom he has entertained 
was Hon. Phillipi Santo, member of the Australian Parliament. 

It was September 30, 1898^. when Adjutant General, that Gen- 
eral Smith entertained Count Yermoloff, Military Attache of the 
Russian Embassy, who was making a tour of observation of the 
volunteer camps here, during the Spanish-American War. The 
Count is described as a tvpical Russian in appearance, dignified 
and a highly polished gentleman and soldier. About this time he 
also entertained a group of Generals and their Aides at an eve- 
ning function at his ohme which was a notable occasion. 

A number of State Superintendents of Public Instruction, 
with the U. S. Commissioner of Education, the Hon. W. T. Harris, 
were entertained by General Smith at a dinner at his home during 
the meeting of the Southern Educational Convention at Lexing- 
ton. 

He has entertained with musicales and fetes, at his home and 
on the lawn, his teachers and students, which is a pleasant mem- 
ory to thousands of graduates. 

February 11, 1908, he entertained at Luncheon, Dean Wade 
K. Rogers of the Yale University Law School, and described in 
the The Leader as follows : 

General Wilbur R. Smith entertained with an elegant 
luncheon today at his home on South Limestone in honor 
of Dr. Henry Wade Rogers, Dean of the Law Department 
of Yale . University. 

The guests were received in the drawing room, which 
was decorated in pink roses, and the dining room in compli- 
ment to the honored guest was all in the Yale blue with vio- 
lets, the Yale flower predominating. 

General Smith's son, Wilbur, Jr., is a student at the 
University and had sent a Yale banner which hung over the 
mantel, and the centerpiece for the table was a tall cut 
glass vase overflowing with violets, white roses and carna- 
tions from which blue ribbons extended to the plates where 
with the name card was a boutonniere of violets for each 
guest. Blue and white candles burned in silver candalabra 
and the confectious were in dainty white. An elaborate 
menu was served. Those asked to meet the guest of honor 
are all representatives of Lexington educational institu- 
tions, making a distinguished company. 

Those present for the delightful affair were: Dr. 
Rogers, Professor Charles Louis Loos, President J. W. Mc- 
Garvey, Professor James White, Dr. Hubert Shearin, Presi- 
dent "Barton Campbell Hagerman, Dr. James Morton Spen- 
cer, Dr. Charles Lee Reynolds.. Professor Alexander Milligan, 
Judge Matthew Walton, Mr. J. T. Vance, Mr. W. W. Estill, 
Mr. Matt Savage Walton who was Dr. Roger's Secretary 
while studying law at Yale University. 




JUSTICE HARLAN, OF THE SUPREME COURT OF THE UNITED 

And Governor Wilson leaving residence of Gen. Smith, November 
23, 1908, where a banquet was given in Justice Harlan's honor. 

The following extract from a local paper describes somewhat 
a social hour for which his home was noted. 

ENTERTAINS JUSTICE HARLAN. 
(Extracts from the Daily Leader.) 



STATES, 



General "Wilbur R. Smith entertained with luncheon 
Monday, Nov. 23, 1908, at his home oh South Limestone 
in honor of Justice John M. Harlan, of Washington, D. C, 
the eminent guest of the city for a day. It was on the oc- 
casion of the Justice's visit to Transylvania University, 
and from this famous University he graduated fifty years 
ago. 

The house was elaborately decorated with palms and 
ferns in the drawing room, red chrysanthemums in the li- 
library, and carnations and meteor roses in the dining room. 

The host was assisted in receiving the guests by Mrs. 
Smith and the children of the houses, who were at home, 
Marguerite and Lila Delia and Godfrey Brainerd Smith. 

The dining room was decked in crimson in honor of 
Transylvania University, two Transylvania banners on the 
wall and a center piece of crimson carnations on the table 
resting on a mirror wreathed in ferns. Crimson-shades 
were silver holders and there were silver dishes of almonds, 
and crimson and white confections. The place cards were 
clever pen and ink sketches of Supreme Court scenes and 
with each at the plates were meteor roses. The Crimson 
showed prettily in the courses of the elegant menu served. 
The ices were designed as flags, eagles, etc. 

Guests of the delightful occasion were, Justice Har- 
lan, Governor Augustus E. Willson, President Crossfleld of 
Transylvania University, Dean William T. Capers, Rev. 
Chas. Lee Reynolds, Mr. James A. Curry, and Judge Mat- 
thew Walton. 



i66 Wilbur R. Smith. 

He entertained in honor of President Bnrris A. Jenkins of 
old Kentucky University, narrated in a daily paper as follows : 

Gen. Wilbur R. Smith entertained Friday evening at 
dinner at his home on South Limestone street, in honor 
of President Burris A. Jenkins, of the Kentucky University. 
The parlors were adorned with the crimson blossoms and the 
University flag - , and on the table the American Beauty rose 
and crimson carnations, dishes of crimson mints, candies, 
etc., carried out the color. The menu consisting of substan- 
tial and ices, was served in a number of courses, and as the 
feast progressed the following toasts were responded to: 
President Burris Jenkins, "My First Impression of Lex- 
ington;" Rev. Mr. Kirkwood, "Ministers' Opportuniites in a 
College Town;" Prof. James A. White, of the State College, 
"The Crown Jewels of Lexington are Her Educational Insti- 
tuitions." The guests were: President Jenkins, Bishop Lewis 
W. Burton, President J. W. McGarvey, Rev. Robert O. Kirk- 
wood, Prof. Charles Louis Loos, Rev. Preston Blake, F. C. 
Pillsbury, Rev. I. S. McElroy, Rev. Mark Collis, Rev. Edwin 
Muller, Rev. I. J. Spencer, Prof. Alexander Milligan, Major 
H. B. McClellan, Prof. A. N. Gordon, Prof. James G, White, 
President B. C. Hagerman, Rev. John Shouse, Rev. B. C. 
Deweese, Rev. S. M. Jefferson, Prof. J. C. Willis, Prof. 
Alfred Fairhurst, Prof. C. C. Freeman, Judge Mat Walton 
Prof. Richard Elliott, Mr. James A. Curry, Mr Leonard Cox 
Mr. John T. Vance, Prof. Herbert Martin, Prof. W. E." 
Selin, Prof. Alfred Zembrod, Prof. Milton Elliott, Mr. Jas. M. 
Graves, and Mr. Wilbur Smith, Jr. 

A Prince from India arrived at the World's Columbian Fair 
in 1893 in pompous style with a retinue of servants. The Prince 
visited the Kentucky Building, where General Smith and other 
Commissioners, and a feAV friends including Eev. Fulton after which 
as a compliment the Prince sang "the morning, noon and night 



A77SITS HIS SON" AT COLLEGE. PHILLIPS-ANDOVEE, 

ALSO YALE. 

Gen. Smith, from his experience, as an educator and seeing 
the value of an education to voung men and women in all 
spheres of life gave his children the advantage of the best schools 
in the land. During his son's attendance at eastern colleges it 
was a pleasure to visit him, in fact there was always a hearty com- 
radeship and confidential relation between the General's children 
and himself at all times and places. He visited his son Wilbur E. 
Smith, Jr., several times during his attendance at Phil lips- Andover 
Academy, Andover, Mass., the last time with his family to attend 
his son's graduation exercises. 

They stopped at "The Inn," an old stone building rnade his- 



Soctal Life. I67 

torical as being the homestead of Harriet Beecher Stowe, the 
authoress. 

On June 19, 1907, seventy-seven were graduated, and this date 
marked the one hundred and twenty-ninth anniversary of this 
famous college. 

Many of the most distinguished men of the United States 
are numbered among its alumni including Oliver Wendell 
Holmes. 

The flower of the Nation seemed to have been brought together 
there numbering over five hundred from many states, and several 
foreign countries. During the week of the commencement exer- 
cises, General Smith was a guest at the class banquet given to Sir 
Chen tung Liang Chang, retiring Minister to the United States, 
the guest of honor of the class of 1892. 

Sir Liang Chang's visit to Andover was memorable 
because of his announcement that the United States had de- 
cided to accept $11, 655, 492,69 complete as indemnity in con- 
nection with the Boxer trouble of 1900. America's share of 
the indemnity exacted from the Flowery Kingdom by the al- 
lied powers was $24,440, 778.81. The Washington government 
therefore forgives China a debt of $12,795,286.12. 

Sir Chentung, dressed in the flowing silk garments of 
his native land and wearing the insignia of his high office, 
accompanied by his son, a lad of 13 years wearing American 
boys' clothes. On this occasion the distinguished diplomat 
in responding to the presentation of a silver loving cup, said 
that when he was a student of this Academy it was his 
master stroke at a match game at baseball that won the vic- 
tory and in his official position in China he had the American 
game of baseball made the Chinese national game. 

During one of his visite to his son at Yale, General 
Smith was accompanied by his wife, and daughter, Mar- 
guerite, at which time they were all the guests at a dinner 
given them in honor of Mrs. Wade K. Rogers, Dean of the 
Law school of Yale in June 1910. They also had the pleasure 
of meeting at this dinner Ex-Justice Brown of the United 
States Supreme Court and Mrs. Brown. The General was 
entertained at the Book and Gavel Society of which his son 
was Chancellor. 




MELVILLE W. FULLER 

Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States. 

Chairman of the Executive Committee of the National University 
of which General Smith was a member (Dec. 1, 1895.) 



National University Project. 16g 

NATIONAL UNIVERSITY PROJECT 
CHAPTER XII 

Member of Executive Committee — Chief Justice Fuller of the United States 
Supreme Court, presiding. Meeting' with the Advisorj^ Committee at 
the Arlington Hotel. Its object. Endeavoring to carry out the design 
of President George Washington of a Post -Graduate University. Meet- 
ing prominent members of the committee, his letters part of Senate 
Record of University Bill. 

General Smith was a member of the Executive Committee of 
the University of the United States, and was very much interested 
in its success. It will be only a matter of time, when this great 
educational project will be realized. A bill for its establishment 
has been continuously before Congress for several years. 

General Smith's attention was first called to the then proposed 
grand University, at the World's Fair by Gov. John W. Hoyt, who 
was heroically advocating its merits. The endorsers of this enter- 
prise were the leading educators and statesmen of the United 
States. 

After his election as a member of the Executive Committee 
for its promotion, he was officially notified thereof, and met with 
other members of the Executive Council at the Arlington Hotel, 
December 1, 1895. The first session of the Council lasted from nine 
A. M. to twelve M. 

Referring to this project Gen. Smith said : 

At this meeting the bill to be presented to Congress stating 
the object of the University was presented, and each section read 
and discussed by the Board, which was finally left to a Revisory 
Board. 

This Revisory Committee met on December 11, 1895, and 
presented a bill to be submitted to Congress. 

As a matter of digression, Chief Justice Fuller of the United 
States Supreme Court was discussing a section of the bill, when 
Senator Edmunds, "called him to order"' in a pleasant way. 

When the section referring to the qualification for admission 
was discussed, Gen. Eaton stated as an illustration, "Which would 
have been most honored, Abraham Lincoln, or Harvard, by either 
referring to his attending college", Lincoln's education was such 
that he could not attend the Law Class of that College." 

The reasons for founding such a University at Washington 
are : 



Tjo Wilbur R. Smith. 

Washington was designated by the Father of his country 
in his bequest of property in aid of its endowment and by his 
selection of land for its site. 

Washington is the only sufficient and convenient spot 
where the Government has both exclusive and perpetual jur- 
isdiction. 

There are in the Government departments and con- 
nected therewith vast amounts of material that could be 
made auxiliary and which being now but partially utilized, 
are, in some part, an enormous capital running to waste. 

There are hundreds of experts in the departments 
whose services could be more or less utilized with mutual 
advantage. Such an University in Washington would exert 
a great influence upon the National government itself in every 
branch and department. 

Your Committee would especially emphasize the fact that the 
National University would fulfill offices vital to the Nation which 
cannot be fulfilled by any other institution ; that a supplemental of 
this high character would surely help and not hinder any othei 
institution, that it would lift the United States from their second- 
ary rank in education to the foremost place among nations; 
and that the pending bill asks for no appropriation in any form, — 
simply the right to be and become. 

"The considerations which moved Washington in this great 
matter were those which later moved the Constitutional Convention 
over which he presided in 1787, and which so strongly moved 
many of the delegates, notably James Madison, Charles Picker- 
ing, John Adams, and Benjamin Franklin, to urge the incorporation 
of a suitable provision in the Constitution itself as a means of mak- 
ing its realization more sure. 

Such also were the considerations which moved Dr. Benj. 
Eush, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, in framing his 
address to the people of the United States, and Samuel Bloclgett 
in the pages of his work on economics, — ("Eeonomica.") 

Such were the considerations which kept the University en- 
terprise constantly in the mind of Washington, during and after 
his eight years of service as President of the United States; that 
inspired his several messages on the subject to Congress, and his 
many earnest letters, formal and special to Thomas Jefferson and 
Vice-President Adams, to Alexander Hamilton and Edmund Pan 
dolph, his Secretaries of State, to the Commissioners of the District 
of Columbia, Governor Brooke of Virginia and others. Such, too, 
were the considerations that moved him to make selection of a 
site for the University in the City of Washington; and that finally 
led to the provision in his last will and testament for a bequest of 
$25,000 in the then valuable stocks of the Potomac Company as 
the beginning of what he hoped would become a sufficient endow- 



National University Project. ljl 

merit and evidently with no question but that Congress would soon 
establish the institution, and make any provision that might be 
necessary to the further security of the stocks with which he had 
begun the endowment. 

It was a] so this same deepening desire and purpose of the 
patriotic educators, men of science, and statesmen of the country, 
that brought the enlargement of the aforesaid committee of the 
Pan-Republic Congress under the new title of the National Com- 
mittee, to promote the establishment of the University of the 
United States, and to the formation by it of an executive Council, 
which council is composed of the following members : 

The Honorable Melville W. Fuller, LL. D., Chief Jus- 
tice of the United States. 

Ex-United States Senator George F. Edmunds, LL. D., 
of Vermont. 

Ex-President William Pepper, M. D., LL. D., Phila- . 
delphia. 

Hon. Andrew D White, LL. D., ex-president of Cornell 
University, ex-United States minister to Germany and 
Russia, member of Venezuelan Commission, etc., New York. 
Ex-Governor John Lee Carroll, LL. D., general presi- 
dent Society of Sons of the Revolution, Maryland. 

Gen. Horace Porter, LL. D., president-general Society 
Sons of the American Revolution, New York. 

Ex-United States Senator Eppa Hunton, LL. D., Vir- 
ginia. 

Ex-United States Senator A. H. Garland, late At- 
torney-General of the United States, Arkansas. 

Ex-United States Senator J. B. Henderson, Missouri 
and District of Columbia. 

Col. Wilbur R. Smith, Kentucky Universit}'. 
Gen. John Eaton, LL. D., ex-United States Commis- 
sioner of Education, etc., New Hampshire. 

Hon. Gardiner G. Hubbard, LL. D., president National 
Geographic Society, Regent of Smithsonian Institution, etc., 
District of Columbia. 

Simon Newcomb, LL. D., Director of the Nautical 
Almanac, District of Columbia. 

Hon. John A. Kasson. ex-United States minister to 
Austria and ambassador to Germany, Iowa. 

Hon. Oscar S. Strauss, ex-UnUed States minister to 
Turkey, New York. 

G. Brown Goode, LL. D., assistant secretary of Smith- 
sonian Institution, in charge of the National Museum. 

Ex-Governor John W. Hoyt, M. D., LL. D., chairman of 
National University Committees, Washington, D. C. 

It was moreover a spirit of determination that induced said 
Executive Council of the National Committee, at the end of 1895, 
to hold a meting of several lengthily sessions, the Hon Melville W. 
Fuller, Chief Justice of the United Slates Supreme Court, presid- 



i/2 Wilbur R. Smith. 

ing, and every member but one being present, to offer the new bill 
(S. 120:?. Fifty Fourth Congress, first session) presented to the 
Senate immediately afterwards and to support the same by the 
arguments of most of its members, personally made before the 
Senate committee. 

The following letters from General Smith were submitted 
with others by Governor Hoyt to the Chairman of the Senate 
Committee on the establishment of the University of the United 
States, as a part of the records of the 54th and 57th Congress. They 
were addressed to Gov. John W. Hoyt : 

(54th Congress — Eeport 429, page 77.) 

Kentucky University 
Lexington, Ky., Oct. 17, 1895 
My dear Sir: 

The more I contemplate the grandeur of the National 
University project, and the great benefits resulting there- 
from to our people by its establishment, I become more 
enthusiastic in the advocacy of it. 

WILBUR R. SMITH. 

(57th Congress — Report 945— page 174.) 

Kentucky University 
Lexington, Ky., May 26, 1896. 
My dear Governor: 

I have just received your reply to the University report, 
etc. ********** The National University enterprise is bound 
to succeed. The people of America will, someday, hold your 
name in grateful remembrance for what you have done in 
this matter. They will recount your trials and triumphs. 

Your friend, 

WILBUR R. SMITH 



Politics and Positions. 17.3 

POLITICS AXD POSITIONS 
CHAPTEE IX. 

Advises young' men not to be active in politics, unless in line with their 
profession. Relates experiencees of others. An observer of politics. 
In many political conferences. Serving- as election officer considered 
a sacred duty and trust. 

Delegate to County, District and State Conventions and an Alternate to a 
National Convention. 

Loyalty to Senator Bradley. Refused proffer of appointment as Alderman, 
also as Member of City and State Board of Equalization, as well 
as making the race for State Senator and State office, his election of 
both being practically assured. President W. H. Taft appoints him 
Postmaster at Lexington, Ky. 

"My advice to young men/ 5 says General Smith, "is not to 
touch politics until yon have the time and means to devote to the 
same independently, or unless it be in line of promotion in your 
profession or to use as a stepping stone. Do not sacrifice your 
valuable time from professional duties, or your business pursuits, or 
you will likely be drifted to an age by its allurements that will 
find you hopelessly a wreck, physically, professionally and finan- 
cially. I have seen the struggles and disappointments of many 
young men entering politics and many political defeats may be 
really a blessing in disguise." 

"I have been asked in council by candidates for Governor, 
Congressmen, U. S. Senators, Legislatods, and county and state 
officials. I have seen their wearing anxiety before and after elec- 
tion, their perplexities encountered in satisfying constituents and 
insinuations of ingratitude." 

General Smith was appointed by Judge Frank Bullock an 
officer of election when the secret ballot was first used in precinct 
"M" in Lexington. More than four hundred votes were cast in 
this precinct afterward and although the majority of its votes were 
registered as Democratic, yet at an election it gave Governor Bradley 
a good majority. 

He was requested several times to allow his name to appear 
as a candidate for Councilman and Alderman of Lexington on 
the Republican ticket, the last time a telephone message was sent 
to him at Higginsport, Ohio, at which place he was visiting, re- 
questing him to allow the use of his name on a ticket, but he re- 
fused. He was requested to make the race for State Senator 
against the Democratic nominee in 1895, and could have had the 
support it is said of the labor organizations and the passive in- 



i/4 Wilbur R. Smith. 

fhience of numerous political (not personal), enemies of a candi- 
date for United States Senator whom the Democratic nominee was 
to represent in the Legislature. He was of the opinion that Governor 
Bradley could carry Fayette county if some of the Democratic 
leaders were not provoked to more active work, and therefore in 
behalf of Gov. Bradley's interests declined to allow his name to 
go on the ticket for State Senator. 

In political, as in various other lines of work, General Smith 
was a veritable dynamo, with a practical foresight. While he was 
loyal to the Republican party, he respected the opinions of others, 
maintaining his self-respect, yet he never sought vengeance. 

He was a delegate to the County, District and State Republi- 
can conventions and was with Governor Bradley in his state cam- 
paign for Governor. He was Alternate delegate to the Republican 
National convention at Philadelphia in 1900 and attended sessions 
of different state Republican leagues and was appointed delegate 
to the golden jubilee convention of Republican leagues by creden- 
tials from Governors Bradley and Willson. 

General Smith's prediction by an interview in the Cincinnati 
Tribune several weeks before the election in 1907 that Governor 
Bradley would be elected to the United States Senate was verified, 
and showed that he was a keen observer in political matters as well 
as in business affairs. It was not generally known that eight of 
General Smith's graduates were members of that legislature which 
elected Governor Bradley United States Senator and played an 
important part in his election. Nearly five thousand loyal gradu- 
ates of his in Kentucky caused a state official to suggest that they 
could be made a potent political factor, while scores of his gradu- 
ates of different political affiliations have been delegates to state 
conventions. General Smith is not a politician, — only the admira- 
tion for a friend and the principles he espoused caused him to take 
an active part at different conventions. Editor Richard Redd in 
his journal referring to the Republican county convention said : 
"Prof. W. R. Smith, by a very ingenious act of strategy made W. 
0. Bradley's ancient enemies endorse him as a good public ser- 
vant" which is explained as follows : 

A thousand republicans were called together at the Lexing- 
ton Auditorium on a Saturday noon in June, 1911, for the pur- 
pose of electing delegates to the State convention to nominate a 
candidate for Governor and other state offices. An ex-United 
States Minister was elected chairman, and many others, actively 
participating, were those deposed from federal offices, or who 
were disappointed office seekers and were naturally adverse to 
President Taft and Senator Bradley. A. Committee on Resolutions 
was appointed by the chairman, who, in their report, ignored the 



Politics and Positions. 175 

names of President Taft and Senator Bradley, and the state ad- 
ministration, with a scant reference to the republican leaders by 
"endorsing the State and National administration generally." 

At this juncture, General Smith arrived at the convention and 
went to the platform and offered a supplementary resolution, 
endorsing President Taft as a wise and conservative President, 
and Governor Bradley as our distinguished Senator/' and also 
endorsed the state administration. The whole anti-Bradley faction 
were confused, looking at one another, while General Smith, at the 
psychological moment, secured the unanimous adoption of his 
resolution. His inquiry as to the whereabouts of the Committee 
on Eesolutions did not mean that he desired to see the Committee 
then, as his adversaries thought he did. About this time it was 
suggested to General Smith that the Committee on Eesolutions 
were coming in with a report which, if he had been in conference 
with the Committee, they would have shorn his resolution and 
brought in a majoritv report. PTe played his part well and by him- 
self. It was the first county in Kentucky to endorse the National, 
State and County Eepublican administrations that year and was 
appreciated by the real leaders of the Eepublican party. 

When the clouds of political strife cleared away, there always 
stood this man, lo}^ally and a most effective fighter, respected by 
his foe and admired by his adversaries for his unfailing loyalty 
to his friends. 

General Smith was personally popular with his political op- 
ponents, the Democrats. He was appointed by Governor John 
Young Brown, with Hon Jno. W. Yerkes, and Hon. A. D. James, as 
republican members of the non-partisan Board of Managers of the 
World's Columbian Exposition. 

He was appointed by Hon. Thomas Combs, Mayor, as the 
republican member of the Board of Park Commissioners, also by 
other democratic mayors to positions of honor. 

He was Vice-President of the Phoenix National Bank, which 
had the city and county deposits of a Democratic administration, 
in fact the only Eepublican on the board, when the Mayor, Sheriff 
and other Democratic officials were members of that board. 

He has also been Clerk, Sheriff, and Judge of his voting precinct 
at different times. 

It is further said that two-thirds of General Smith's nearly 
five thousand graduates, who are voters in Kentucky are democrats 
and that he is friendly with them and they with him. PTe would 
say, "Boys, it is just awful to see so much good material going by 
default in the democratic party. Come now, let's reason together 
about this." 

Hundreds of irraduates of General Smith have held official 



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positions, among whom are a Congressman, two Lieutenant Gov- 
ernors, Attorney-General of State, many who were members of the 
Legislature of different states ; United States Government, State, 
County and City officials: Secretary to U. S. Secretary of State; 
Secretaries to Governors and IT. S. Senators. 



Postmaster. 177 

CHAPTER XIV. 
POSTMASTER AT LEXINGTON, KY. 

President W. H. Taft makes Appointment. Office of the First Class. Sen- 
ator Bradley presented General Smith's endorsement and recom- 
mended his appointment. Prominent citizens unite in testimonial of 
esteem. Meeting 1 President Taft and distinguished men at the White 
House. Good business management of the office. History making 
epochs. During early part of administration (1911.) Inauguration of 
the Postal Savings Bank. Transmission of mail by interurban railway 
to Central Kentucky towns recommended. Closing of Post Office to 
public on Sundays, (1912). Enforcement of regulations against white 
slave traffic and clandestine correspondence. Corps of Department 
Chiefs, (1912). Transmission of mail by areoplane attempted in 1912. 
Parcel Post articles delivered by automobile, 1913. As member at- 
tends the National Association of Postmasters, of First Class offices, 
at Atlantic City, N. J. Makes address at Annual Meeting of the 
Postmasters of Kentucky. Offers resolution which was wired to 
President Taft and General Hitchcock. Historic Office. Statistics. 

GENERAL SMITH was appointed Postmaster at Lexington, 
Ivy.,, by President William Howard Taft. July 22d 1911, 
and was unanimously confirmed by the Senate of the United 
States. He had the endorsement of Senator William 0. Bradley, 
his personal friend and to whom his appointment was largely due. 
He also had the endorsement of educators, business and professional 
men and officials of Lexington, and that of Republican congressmen 
of Kentucky and a majority of the Republican State Central Com- 
mittee, many legislators and others. After arranging his college 
affairs and installing Prof. W. W. Smith as Superintendent of his 
College, he made a brief visit to Washington conferring with Sen- 
ator Bradley, and returned to Lexington and took charge of the 
office, September 1, 1911. 

While at Washington, upon the invitation of Senator Bradley, 
he accompanied him to the White House and paid his respects to 
President Taft, thanking him for his appointment. 

He was also introduced to Vice-President Sherman and sev- 
eral Senators at the President's office Avho were arriving to Avitness 
the signing of the Canadian-Reciprocity bill recently passed by 
Congress. Afterward called on Postmaster-General Frank H. 
Hitchcock and First Assistant Postmaser General Grandfield. 

The Lexington Postoffice being the highest salaried official 
position in that city was naturally sought by others who desired the 
honorable and remunerative office. General Smith's predecessor 
was anions;'- the first to send his congratulations and best wishes. 





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It is said that other positions were suggested to General Smith, 
that would have taken him out of the state and country which, 
though highly salaried he could not afford to accept on account of 
his college and other financial interests in Lexington. 

The importance of the Lexington Postmastership can be 
judged, not on account of the fact that it is rated First Class and 
employs some sixty-five persons, is the custodian of deposits for 
many Kentucky towns, hut from the fact that during the one hun- 
dred and seventeen years since this office was instituted, the per- 
sonnel of its twenty Postmasters has been recognized as coming 
from its most prominent citizens. 

THE PRESS ON GENERAL S'MITH'S APPOINTMENT. 

(The Farmer's Equity Journal, Aug. 19, 1911.) 

It was once Prof. Smith, then General Wilbur R. Smith, 

it will now be in order to salute him as "Postmaster General" 

Smith. General Smith is a fine and successful business man. 

(Courier- Journal, July 20, 1911.) 
The promptness of the President in sending in the 
names immediately following the report of the Kentuckyy 
Republican convention proceedings made known by Senator 
Bradley, pleeased the Blue Grass solon to the exteent of an 
"all day smile." I was deeply interested in the Lexington 




PRESIDENT WILLIAM H. TAFT. 
GEN. SMITH'S COMMISSION AS POST 3IASTER OF LEXINGTON, KY. 

WILLIAM HOWARD TAFT 
President of The United States of America. 

To all to whom these presents shall come, Greeting: 

Know Ye, That reposing special trust and confidence in the intelli- 
gence, diligence and discretion of Wilbur R. Smith, I have nominated, and, 
by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, do appoint him Post- 
master at Lexington, in the County of Fayette, 'State of Kentucky; and 
do authorize and empower him to execute and fulfill the duties of that 
office according to the laws of the United States and the regulations of 
the Post Office Department, and to have and to hold the said officce, with 
all the rights and emoluments thereunto legally appertaining unto him, 
the said Wilbur R. Smith, for and during the term of four years from thf- 
twenty-second day of July, 1911, subject to the conditions prescribed by 
law. 

In Testimony Whereof, I have caused these letters to be made patent 
and the seal of the Post Office Department of the United States to be here^ 
with affixed. 

Given under my hand at the 'City of Washington, this twenty-first day 
of August, in the year of our Lord one thousand nine hundred and eleven, 
and of the Independence of the United States of America one hundred and 
thirty sixth. 

By the President: (Signed) Wm. H. TAFT. 

[SEAL] 

(Signed) Frank H. Hitchcock, 

Postmaster General. 



i8o Wilbur R. Smith. 

Post Office, said Senator Bradley to-night. General Smith 
was at one time my Adjutant General and is my friend. 

After Gen. Smith's appointment the following testimonial was 
presented by prominent citizens. 

Lexington, Ky. 

It is our privilege and pleasure to testify that General 
Wilbur R. Smith is a man of high character and has the 
personal esteem of the best element of our citizens. 

He merits the many honors conferred on him and the 
success he has achieved. 

Few have done more for the educational and financial 
betterment of our people. 

We congratulate the community in securing his services 
knowing, by education and experience, he will fill every trust 
efficiently and with dignity. 

LEAVIS W. BURTON, Bishop, Episcopal Church. 

E. G. B. MANN, Pastor, First Methodist Church. 

CHARLES LEE REYNOLDS, Pastor, Second Presby- 
terian Church. 

I. J. SPENCER, Pastor, Central Christian Church. 

W. T. CAPERS, Dean, Christ Church Cathedral. 

E. L. SOUTHGATE, Presiding Elder Lexington Dist. 
M. E. Church South. 

GEORGE H. HARRIS, Church of Good Shepherd. 

HENRY S. BARKER, President State University. 

R. H. CROSSFIELD, President, Transylvania University. 

H. G. SHEARIN, President, Hamilton College. 

J. M. SPENCER, President, Sayre College. 

B. C. HAGERMAN, President, Campbell-Hagerman 
College. 

J. W. STOLL, President Lexington City National Bank. 

J. E. McPARLAND, Cashier, Lexington City National 
Bank. 

J. E BASSETT, President Commercial Club and 
Banker. 

M. A. CASSIDY, Superintendent City Schools. 
JOHN SKAIN, Mayor. 

J. T. WILKERSON, President, Union Bank and Trust 
Company. 

WILLIAM WARREN, Cashier, Fayette National Bank. 

J. WALLER RODES, President, Phoenix-Third Nation- 
al Bank. 

W. H. CASSELL, President Security Trust & Safety 
Vault Co. 

D. G. FALCONER, Attorney-at-Law. 

BISHOP CLAY, Vice-President Lexington Banking & 
Trust Co. 

JOHN G. STOLL, President Hyd. Mfg. Co., (Water- 
works Co.) And many others. 

After Inspector J. T. Games had checked up accounts and 
items of the retiring Post Master, the formal transfer of office 
was made hv Postmaster Thomas L. Walker to General Smith who 



Post mas i er. 



181 



receipted to his predecessor for everything" transferred to his 
custody. 

He found all employees of his office were under the Civil Ser- 
vice and that twelve were former pupils of his College. 




POSTMASTER SMITH WITH HIS FORMER STUDENTS 
GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES 

To the left of General Smith is Superintendent of Mails, George H- War- 
ren, salary $1,500. 

To the right is Harry McEldowney, Acting- U. S. Collector of Internal 
Revenue, salary at rate of $4,500 a year. 

Standing- to left is H. .D Wilson, Secretary to Postmaster, salary $1,200. 

Others in group are receiving an average of $1,200 each, from left to 

right are S. H. Crosthwaite, Lee Brittingham, W. B, Prather, A. 

F. Adams, W. R. Owings, F. R- Diamond, J. B. Irvin, 

W. W. Thompson, W. S. Gordon and O. T. Jones. 






Transmission of Mail 

BY iNTf RURBAN RY. 
RECOMMENDED 1911 



ENFORCEMENT OF REGULATIONS AGAIN5T 

White Slave Traffic 
Clandestine Correspondence 



Transmission of 

mail BY 

Aeroplane 

attempted 1912 



Parcel Post 

articles 
delivered by 
aut0m0bilei9i3. 



/pocz/s /a Postal Scrv/ce dur/nq f/rst y^aa and rtALf-YFA# of thy Adm/h/swat/on o/=- 

WILBUR R.Sff/Tff, postmaster 

JJeLXJngfori, Ky (£<?g/nntng- Sept. /. '9/2. 

General Smith's business management of the office was accord- 
ing to the most approved business methods. 

He arranged for stated meetings of a corps of chiefs of the 
various departments for the discussion of problems for benefiting 
the service. Notwithstanding the great increase of amount of busi- 
ness in the various departments of the service, yet the expense 
(other than automatic) and the number of employees, was not ma- 
terially increased, in fact part; of the usual allowance for Christmas 
business was returned to the department. 

Several hundred dollars have been saved during this time in 
the expense for coal and electricity by a ten-column record with 
instructions formulated by General Smith. 

The eighty thousand dollars improvements to the Government 
building was completed during his administration, in fact after the 
resignation of the superintendent of construction important duties 
of winding up the work was left to him. 

The Postal Savings bank was inaugurated October 14, 1911, 
General Smith was notified September 11, 1911, that in accordance 
with the terms of Act of Congress approved June .25, 1910, amended 
and approved March 4, 1911, that the Lexington Post Office was 
designated as a Postal Savings Depository from October 14, 1911 r 
and was authorized to receive deposits under certain regulations. 

The Postal Savings Depository has been a success at the afore- 
said office from the first day of its service — the beginning of which 
is shown by the following item, prominently appearing on first page 
of the Lexington Leader, Oct. 14, 1911. 

(Leader, Oct. 14, 1911.) 
GODFREY SMITH FIRST DEPOSITOR IN 

POSTAL BANK 
Son of the Postmaster Leaves Home Before 
Breakfast and Holds His Place at 
Money Order Department Door 
Until His Money is Taken In. 
The postal savings bank was opened at the Lexington 
postoffice Saturday morning at 8:30 o'clock. ; Godfrey 
Brainerd Smith, the ten-year-old son of Postmaster Wilbur 
R. Smith, was the first depositor. The little fellow had 
ridden his pony to the office early in the morning, not wait- 
ing for his breakfast. 



Postmaster. 183 

The lad stuck steadily to his post, much of the time 
with his hack against the money order department door, so 
that no one could get his place and be the first depositor. 

When the necessary blanks had been filled out for him 
and he had signed his name a sufficient number of times 
and had received his coupon and envelope for the keeping 
of coupons and postal savings stamp cards, the little fellow 
seemed supremely happy and did not object to riding home 
on his pony in the rain to get a late breakfast, for he had 
gotten what he went after — the honor of being the first 
depositor in the new bank. 

The first attempt to use the areoplane was authorized by the 
Department in transmitting TJ. S. mail from the Lexington, Ky., 
Post Office, June 8, 1912, under the auspices of the Mercurial 
Areoplane and Entertainment Co. It was contemplated to carry 
mail by areoplane from Lexington to a neighboring post office, 
Winchester, Ky. 

About a 1000 postal cards had been mailed at this office to be 
carried by areoplane to Winchester, and thence by the regular 
despatch to post offices throughout Kentucky, and to different 
States in the Union. . 

The meet of the Mercurial Areoplane and Entertainment Com- 
pany began June 3, at the grounds of the Kentucky Eacing As- 
sociation. Xumerous flights were made from the grounds each day, 
and the people eagerly anticipated the flights. 

A temporary post office was established at the grounds in the 
afternoons, in charge of a regular clerk from the main office, for 
the benefit' of those who wished to avail' themselves of this novel 
way of sending mail. 

It was deeply regretted by the management of the Aeroplane 
Company and the public that the prevailing high winds prevented 
the contemplated flight. 

Aviator Paul Peck, who endeavored to transfer the mail was 
killed within six months afterward at Chicago when- trying to 
make a spiral glide. 

The Parcel Post was inaugurated at the Lexington, Ky., Post 
Office, Wednesday morning, at 7 a. m.. January 1, 1913. General 
W. E. Smith, Postmaster, mailed the first package, under the new 
svstem, to his son, Wilbur E. Smith, Jr., attorney-at-law-, Columbus, 
Ohio. 

Fifteen packages had been mailed during the first hour the 
window was open. At 10 o'clock the window was closed in observance 
of NeAv Year Holiday, but something like a half-wagon load of 
packages had been taken in, addressed to points throughout all the 
eight zones, the parcels weighing from one-half to nine and one- 



184 Wilbur R. Smith. 

half pounds. Daily papers referring to this new feature, chronicled 
its progress as follows: 

(Jan. 2nd.) It is quite evident that the parcel post sys- 
tem is a success. A crowd was in line and waiting when the 
window was opened. The trade continued good throughout 
the day. Among the articles sent were, a basket of fruit 
to Vieksburg, Miss., for 78 cents; A box of apples to Atlanta, 
Ga., a wooden box of produce weighing nine pounds to 
Lebanon, Ohio, for thirty-eight cents. Six packages were 
insured to the limit of fifty dollars each. 

(Jan. 3rd.) Five pounds of sausage went by parcel post 
to Erie, Pa., for thirty-two cents. The number of parcels 
sent by parcel post steadily increases. Packages of every 
description, from coal to clothes are sent by parcel post. 

(Jan. 4th.) "While the number of packages sent by 
parcel post steadily increases, only a small number were re- 
ceived with ordinary stamps attached. The public learned 
that the ordinary stamps cannot be used on parcel post 
packages. 

AUTO TBI7CK USED FOR DELIVERY OF 
PARCEL POST. 

(Jan. 6th.) Owing to the great increase of parcel post 
matter since its inauguration on Jan. 1st., the Postmaster 
decided it would be necessary to use an automobile truck in 
delivering parcels in the near future instead of a wagon, 
now used. 

(Jan. 13.) The new auto truck left the postoffice exactly 
at half past eight o'clock with 62 packages to be delivered 
seven of which were insured and had to be receipted for. 
The truck returned to the office at 10:30 o'clock. The speed- 
ometer showed that twenty miles had been traversed in the 
delivery of the 62 packages, and that it would have taken a 
horse and wagon, which has been \ised previously all day to 
do the work. The expense, too, is lower than the former way. 

Clandestine correspondence received a severe shock, when 
Postmaster Smith, by instructions from the Department, ordered 
that the mail should not be used for that purpose, nor the Govern- 
ment building as a clandestine meeting place. 

The Sunday closing of the Lexington Post Office to the 
public was made effective in June, 1912. The dispatching of the 
mails and such other work as was absolutely a necessity only, was 
a step encouraging morality and Sunday observance. There is, 
throughout the country, and, in fact was, at the annual convention 
of postmasters at Atlantic City, New Jersey, a divided sentiment 
in regard to this matter. 

General Smith attended the fifteenth Annual Convention of 
the National Association of Postmasters of First Class offices held 



Postmaster. 



185 



at Atlantic City, K~ew Jersey, September, 4, 5, and 6, 1912. Each 
clay's programme, embraced addresses from the heads of various 
Post Office departments, and was diversified by social features, 
including clam bakes, auto drives, sailing parties, smokers, theatri- 
cal parties, etc. Nearly two hundred postmasters were present, 
representing the large cities throughout the land. 




Postmasters of the First Class Offices of the United States in session at At- 
lantic City, New Jersey, September, 4, 5, 6, 1912. 



Name 
President, E. R. Sizer 
Pres. -Elect, Isadore Sobel 
1st. Vice-Pres. Robt. E. Woods 
Ex-Pres. E. R. Monfort 
Ex-Pres. Maj. A. W. Wills 
Ex-Pres. F. G. Withoft 
Hon. R. S. Sliarp, (Chief Inspector) 
Wm. Hall Harris 
D. T. Gerow 
Wilbur R. Smith 
P. L. Stockling 
W. G. Haskell 
Edgar Allan, Jr., 
W. G. Brig-gs 
Miss Alice M. Robertson 
N. R. Jessup 
J. C. Richardson 
Buel J. Derby 
Charles D. Brown 
Mrs. E. G. Mattoon 
P. B. Crofitt 
j. L. Campbell 
S. B. Miller 
J. H. Harison 
W. A. Hutchison 



Lincoln, Neb. 
Erie, Penn. 
Louisville, Ky. 
Cincinnati, Ohio. 
Nashville, Tenn. 
Dayton, Ohio. 
Washington, D. C. 
Baltimore, Md. 
Jacksonville, Fla. 
Lexington, Ky. 
Tacoma, Wash. 
Cedar Rapids, Iowa. 
Richmond, Va. 
Raleigh, N. C. 
Muskogee, Okla. 
Stamford, Conn. 
Jackson, Mich. 
Burlington, Vt. 
Gloucester, Mass. 
Shebos'gan, Wis. 
Danbury, Conn. 
No. Hampton, Mass. 
Cairo, Ills. 
Denver, Colo. 
Oak Park, Ills. 



No. 



24 

25 

10 

13 

36 

21 

40 

15 

12 

1 

6 

8 

11 

7 

57 

60 
31 
61 

17 

27 
20 



1 86 Wilbur R. Smith. 

Chas. M. Hoyt Haverhill, Mass. 30 

Jas. B. Mates Butler, Pa. 34 

N. A. Warren Yonkers, N. Y. 42 

J. M. McLaughlin Lynchburg, Va. 56 

J. B. Hess Dubois, Pa. . 64 

W. D. Fitzgerald Taunton. Mass. 66 

F. H. Fales Framington, Mass. 67 

G. T. Durfie Fall River Mass. 6* 
G. F. Pease Rutland, Vt. 69 
C. A. Chase Holyoke, Mass. 70 
W. F. Bevitt Springfield, Ohio. 3 
Wm. Royer Seward, Nebr. 16 
John N. Dersam McKeesport, Pa. 19 
Wm. H. Davis Pattsburgh, Pa. 20 



It may be of interest to note that before the establish- 
ment of a post office at Lexington,, John Bradford, founder 
of the Kentucky Gazette, employed "post riders to deliver 
his papers to subscribers, and, incidentally, to collect their 
mail, and in 1790, Mr. Bradford, to still further accommodate 
the people of the community, opened a letter box in his print- 
ing office where all letters and papers brought to town were 
deposited until called for. This service was kept up until 
sometime in September, 1794, when the Government estab- 
lished a post office at Lexington, then a town of about 1,000 
inhabitants. , , - •■ i 

The first post office in Lexington was in the public room 
of the log jail, which building was located on Main street 
near Broadway. 

The post office consisted of a box divided into pigeon 
holes, in which were arranged eht papers and letters in al- 
phabetical order; this box occupied a positoin on the mantel 
above the wide fire-place, in reach of the public. 

The postage, in those days, on letters was regulated 
by a table of distance; 30 miles and under, 6 cents; over 30 
and under 80, 10 cetns; over 80 a nd under 150, 12,y 2 cets; 
over 150 and under 400, 18% cents; over 400, 25 cents. 

Captain John Fowler >vas a soldier in the Revolutionary 
war. In 1787 he represented Fayette county in the Vir- 
ginia Legislature, and was first Congressman from Fayette 
county. 

T. S. Redd "was appointed through the influence of 
Henry Clay. He graduated from Transylvania University 
with Jefferson Davis. 

Capt. Jesse Woodruff and Capt. W. S. McChesney were 
Mexican War soldiers. 

Gen. Price, Col. Milward and Capt. Howard were Union 
soldiers. 

Dr. L. B Todd was a cousin of President Lincoln's wife. 

General Smith reviews proceedings of the National Association., 
in an address before the Postmasters of Kentucky, as described 
by the folio wing article. 



Postmaster. I87 

GEN. SMITH TO KY. POSTMASTERS 

Lexington Official Speaks at Louisville and Gives Some Highly Interesting 

Information. 

Resolution Wired President Taft and Gen. Hitchcock. 

The Seventh annual meeting of the postmasters of 
Kentucky of the first, second and third class was held at the 
Hotel Henry Watterson, Louisville, Monday and Tuesday. 
The convention was called to order by Hon. George Wilhelmi, 
with J. P. Spillman, Secretary. After a formal welcome to 
Louisville by Postmaster Wood, of that city, and some routine 
business transacted, a motion to adjourn for the races was 
voted down 

Postal officials from Washington, D. C, are on the 
program for Tuesday. Postmaster Wilbur R. Smith, of 
Lexington, was called upon for an address Monday and 
replying presented the following resolution and afterward 
gave a brief discussion on prominent subjects at the Na- 
tional Association meeting of Postmasters of the firvt c\ass 
offices, recently held at Atlantic City. The resolution px'-e- 
sented by General Smith reads as follows tnd was unan- 
imously adopted: 

THE RESOLUTION 

President W. H. Taft, Beverly, Mass. 

The Postmasters of Kentucky in annual convention 
assembled, cotigratulate you, the Chief Executive of this 
great nation of ours on your wise, patriotic, dignified and suc- 
cessful administration, resulting in its greatest prosperity, 
and upholding the constitution, maintaining peace, and com- 
manding honor and influence with all nations. We wish you 
continued success. 

This resolution and one to Postmaster-General Hitch- V 
cock were wired to the President and General Hitchcock, 
respectively. The subjects General Smith reviewed were the 
Parcel Post, Postal Savings Bank, the proposed bonding of 
postal employees and pensioning of suparennuated em- 
ployees. 

Epoch making history and record of the Lexington Post Office 
for the first year and a half of General Smith's administration is 
given : 

FIVE THOUSAND PARCELS HANDLED MONTHLY IN LEXINGTON 

SINCE NEW REGULATIONS TOOK EFFECT— INTERESTING 

INFORMATION OF LOCAL POSTAL DEVELOPMENT. 

(Lexington Leader, March 15, 1912.) 

That the parcel post has become very popular in Lex- 
ington, and that it has come to stay, is evidenced by the an- 
nouncement given out by Postmaster Wilbur R. Smith Satur- 



i88 Wilbur R. Smith. 

day to the effect that more than 5,000 packages had been sent 
out from the Lexington postiffice via the parcel post route 
during the month of February, the same amount being - sent 
out in January. In each month, the number received at the 
local postoffice was practically the same as the number sent 
out. 

The parcel post is only one of the features that has 
been inaugurated during the term of office of Postmaster 
Smith. His first move was the recommendation of trans- 
mission cf mail by interurban, closely followed by the inau- 
guration of the Postal Savings Bank on October 14, 1911. 

In the summer of 1912, the closing of the postoffice as a 
public rendezvous was effected and shortly after that a reform 
was made through the enforcement of regulations against the 
"White slave traffic and clandestine correspondence, which 
has been strictly adhered to. Another event inl912 was 
the transmission for the first time in this State, of mail by 
aeroplane. 

The crowning epoch of the year and one half of lhe 
administration of Postmaster Smith came on January 1, 
1913, with the introduction of the parcel post. Its wide use 
is a proof of its success. 

During this period the income of the postof?.'iee has 
been approximately $200,000, the largest for any like period 
in thft hist'i ry of this office. 

Again, during this time, the completion of the $80,000 
improvements on the government building was made with 
the requisition of new furniture, carpets, and other furnish- 
ings which required some additional time and thought on the 
part of General Smith, as he is the Custodian of the Govern- 
ment building The expense for the above time has not been 
increased, notwithstanding the increase of business and inau- 
guration of other service, except by promotion. 

This all shows the watchful and economical manage- 
ment of the local office under General Smith, whose ad- 
ministration has not only been an efficient one but popular as 
well. 

In addition to the above statistics, the following de- 
partmental figures, which are given approximately, show 
the large volume of business done in the local office for the 
past year and a half. 

Number of letters and post cards, five million pieces. 

Money orders issued, thirty thousand, amounting to 
$250,000. 

The parcel post handles 5,000 pieces monthly. In the 
postal savings bank, one hundred and forty-nine persons 
have been depositors since its installation. The registry de- 
partment, over window, by carrier and in transit 120,000 
pieces have been handled. 

Besides Postmaster Smith, there are more than seventy 
persons employed in this office, twenty-three clerks, twenty- 
four city carriers, five substitute carriers, eleven rural car- 
riers, seven railway postal clerks, two special delivery clerks. 
The employees of this office are paid between $5,000 and $6,000 
a month. 



Postmaster. I89 

POSTMASTERS. LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY. 

(Appointed. By Whom Appointed. Epochs in Postal Service.) 

Inness B. Brent, appointed Oct. 1, 1794, by President 
Washington. 

John W. Hunt, appointed April 1, 1799, by President 
John Adams. 

John Jordan, Jr., appointed Jully, 1, 1872, by President 
Thomas Jefferson. 

John Fowler, appointed April 1, 1814, by President 
Madison. 

Joseph Ficklin, appointed Jan. 11, 1822 by President 
Monroe; Letters returned to writers 1S30. 

Thomas S. Redd, appointed uly 22,, 1841, by President 
Tyler. 

Joseph Ficklin, appointed Mar. 29, 1843, by President 
Tyler; Postage Stamps issued 1847. 

Geo. R. Trotter, appointed Oct. 4. 1S50 by President 
Taylor; Stamped Envelopes issued 1853. 

Squire Bassett, appointed Feb. 25, 1852 ; by President 
Fillmore; Stamped Envelopes, 1853. 

Jesse Woodruff, appointed Sept. 4, 1855, by President 
Pierce; Letters registered 1855. 

Lyman B. Todd, appointed Mar. 23, 1861, by President 
Abraham Lincoln; Newspaper Wrappers; Special request 
Envelopes; Money order system 1864; Free Delivery 1863. 

Samuel W. Price, appointed Apr. 5, 1869, by President 
Grant; Postal cards 1873. 

Hubbard H. Milward, appointed Mar. 24, 1876, by Presi- 
dent Grant; Special deliver y 1885. 

Wm. Samuel McChesney, appointed Dec. 23, 1887, by 
President Cleveland; Rural deliver}'' 1890. 

James R. Howard, appointed Mar. 19. 1891, by President 
Benjamin Harrison. 

Wm. Samuel McChesney. appointed Jan. 17. 1894, by 
President Cleveland. 

Fielden Clay Elkin, appointed May 10, 1S9S, by Presi- 
dent McKinley. 

Chas. H. Berryman, appointed Aug. 6, 1906, by Presi_ 
dent Roosevelt. 

Thomas L. Walker, appointed Mar. 1907, by President 
Roosevelt. 

Wilbur R. Smith, appointed July 1911. by President 
Taft; Postal Savings bank 1911: Sunday Closing 1912; Anti 
clandistine correspondence 1912; Parcel Post 1913. 



HELD OFFICE UNDER TWO PRESIDENTS. 




President Woodrow Wilson 

With pleasure, General Smith's thousands of graduates of different 
political affiliations have referred to him, their friend and preceptor, as 
having held, with enviable record, an honored position under President 
Taft and President Wilson, as well as under different Governors hereto- 
fore referred to. 

Service Appreciated by Two Postmaster-Generals. 



Former Postmaster-General Frank H. Hitchcock wrote Postmaster 
Smith, thanking him for 1 interest and helpful suggestions m post office 
affairs. 

Postmaster-General Albert S. Burleson, replying to a felicitous letter 
from General Smith, in taking up his port folio, wrote as follows which 
makes an appropriate closing for this chapter: 

THE POSTMASTER-GENERAL 
Washington, D. C. 

March 13, 1913. 
Hon. Wilbur R. Smith, 

Lexington, Ky. 
Dear Sir: — 

I assure you T appreciate your good wishes. I can appreciate the 
satisfaction that must be yours in having educated so many young men 
of our country for their life's work. 
With kind regards, 

Very sincerely, 

A. S. BURLESON. 



With this chapter we conclude the 
interesting and pleasant service 
assigned us by the committee, in 
the brief review of the successful 
career, to date, of General Wilbur 
R. Smith, one of the useful and 
honored citizens of the state. 

Much interesting matter of "Remi- 
niscences of Forty Years With 
Fifteen Thousand Students, Their 
Trials and Triumphs/' and matter 
for other subjects which are ex- 
pected to form other bool's have 
been omitted. 

We drop the pen, for others to take 
up later to record future achieve- 
ments of Wilbur R. Smith, which 
we prophesy will be as resplend- 
ent as those of the past. 



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